By Takudziridzwa Nyama
A stolen Toyota Hilux GD6, valued at over P590,000, was successfully recovered in Figtree, Zimbabwe, in the early hours of yesterday following a robbery in Matsiloje Village, Botswana.
The recovery is a direct result of the ongoing and effective security cooperation between the Botswana Police Service (BPS) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
The incident unfolded yesterday morning when the owner of the vehicle was robbed by three unknown men in Matsiloje. The BPS immediately launched an investigation to locate the stolen vehicle and apprehend the perpetrators.
Acting on intelligence suggesting the vehicle may have crossed the border into Zimbabwe, the BPS promptly shared information with their ZRP counterparts, initiating a joint investigation.
Intensive search efforts by the ZRP led to the successful recovery of the Toyota Hilux in Figtree.
Both the BPS and ZRP are currently engaged in a hot pursuit of the criminals who remain at large. Plans are also underway to facilitate the return of the recovered vehicle to its rightful owner in Botswana.
The Botswana Police Service has expressed profound gratitude to their Zimbabwean counterparts for the support and collaboration in this case.
“Botswana Police Service would like to profoundly thank the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for their unwavering commitment to combating cross-border and transnational organised crime.”
This case has demonstrated the true spirit and testament of excellent bilateral relations between the two neighbours.