The Hawks have on Friday, handed sixteen stolen luxury cars to the United Kingdom police in Port Elizabeth. The luxury cars, valued at an estimated R14million, were stolen from the United Kingdom and shipped to South Africa. They were intercepted on arrival at Coaga Harbour by the Hawks' International Vehicle Crime Unit together with United Kingdom AVCIS Unit. When they arrived in South Africa, the cars were declared as clothes and other goods.
The cars were destined for the African market, and we believe that they were going to be exchanged for cash and drugs. The cars include six Range Rovers, four BMWs (X5, and X6, a 330D and a Sport), one Audi Q7, two Land Rovers, Vauxhall, a Volvo and a Mercedes Benz.
Three more luxury vehicles came through the Durban Port. They too will be handed back to the British authorities.
The South African Police Service Management congratulates the unit for a job well done. They kept their dedication to their work, despite sometimes receiving death threats from suspected members of syndicates. The vehicles will be shipped back to the United Kingdom. Some will be handed back to the owners, while others will be given to insurance companies who have already paid out.
The insurance companies will carry the shipping costs.
Enquiries:
Colonel McIntosh Polela
Tel: (012) 400 6579 /6584
Fax: (012) 400 7018
Cell: 082 475 1427
E-mail: dpci.communication@saps.org.za
Source: South African Police Service
Sixteen stolen luxury cars handed over to United Kingdom Police
