The SAPS Detectives in Malamulele, in conjunction with the Family Violence and Child Protection Unit in MW Makhubela Police Station, have cracked down and arrested a notorious criminal.

The arrested criminal, identified as Dumisani Isaac ‘Chucheka’ Mabasa (26) was arrested at Kaalfontein, in the Gauteng Province on a tip-off from members of the community after a 24 hours manhunt. He was wanted for fifteen serious cases he committed in the Malamulele and MW Makhubela policing areas, which include escaping from lawful custody, eight rape charges, four common robberies, one armed robbery, possession of unlicensed firearm and kidnapping.

Supt Moatshe Ngoepe of the Limpopo Police Communication and Liaison Services says the suspect was initially arrested for eight of the above cases but when he was awaiting trial at the Thohoyandou Correctional Services, he escaped while in transit between Malamulele and MW Makhubela on the way to Brits, in the North West Province, to go and face other serious charges there.

"After he escaped, he continued his criminal behaviour where he allegedly raped eight women aged between 13 and 23, within the Malamulele area. We welcome the re-arrest of him and appreciate the cooperation from our peace-loving community members who assisted us in tracking him down."

Meanwhile, the Mopani Police have again made a major breakthrough during a cleanup operation where they arrested a total of 154 wanted suspects. The suspects were wanted for various crimes ranging from armed robberies, rapes and theft. A number of stolen articles where also recovered which include motor vehicles, cell phones, linen, and clothing. All were valued at more than R300 000.

Various police units at various police stations conducted the operation for 24 hours and it will still continue until crime drops in Mopani. The suspects will appear in different magistrate’s courts soon.