Armed Hitchhiker Kills Two in Robbery Attempt

Two alleged robbers were fatally shot after attempting to rob an armed hitchhiker in Middelburg late on 30 November 2024. A third suspect was arrested at the scene.

The incident unfolded around 23:15 when suspects in a Hyundai Tucson SUV picked up a 44-year-old man hitchhiking. According to police reports, the suspects pretended to help but instead held the hitchhiker hostage, robbing him of his mobile phone and other belongings at knifepoint. One suspect then demanded his bank card PIN, warning him to comply if he valued his life.

While one of the suspects walked to a nearby ATM to withdraw cash using the stolen card, the hitchhiker seized an opportunity to defend himself. Armed with a firearm, he fatally shot the driver and a passenger, while two other suspects fled the scene.

The hitchhiker sought help at a nearby filling station, where police and security officers were called. Upon their arrival, authorities discovered the lifeless bodies of the two suspects and arrested another suspect who had inexplicably returned to the scene. The arrested individual, identified as a 43-year-old Zimbabwean national and the vehicle’s owner, faces robbery charges.

A manhunt has been launched for the two remaining suspects, while the identities of the deceased are yet to be confirmed. Preliminary investigations revealed that the confiscated firearm belongs to the hitchhiker. Police are collaborating with the Department of Home Affairs to verify the immigration status of the arrested suspect.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, cautioned against the dangers of hitchhiking, noting a worrying trend of crimes linked to such encounters. “Though people are free to choose their mode of transport, we urge them to prioritise their safety over saving money or making extra cash,” he stated.

Investigations into the shooting and robbery are ongoing. The arrested suspect is expected to appear in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court soon.