POLOKWANE – In a recent incident in Mankweng, a hitchhiker was robbed and left stranded, prompting a manhunt for the suspects involved.

According to South African Police Service, the event underscores the dangers of hitchhiking, especially as the festive season approaches.

The robbery occurred on Wednesday evening, 29 November 2023, along the R71 road near Tzaneen. Reports state that a 60-year-old man, while hitchhiking to Magoebaskloof, was picked up by a silver Polo carrying three men. Instead of stopping at the intended destination, the vehicle sped past, and the suspects demanded money from the victim. As he only had a bank card, they forced him to disclose his balance and then coerced him into requesting additional funds from a contact.

After the money was transferred, the victim was assaulted and stabbed for refusing to reveal his PIN. The assailants then blindfolded him and drove towards Polokwane, withdrawing the money from his account. The victim was eventually abandoned in Mankweng and rescued by locals, who alerted the police and medical services. He is currently receiving medical treatment.

Lieutenant General Hadebe advised the public to use safer transportation methods, cautioning against the risks posed by criminals during the holiday period.

A case of armed robbery is open, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Solly Legodi or use the Crime Stop number and MySAPS App for anonymous tips.