Johannesburg – Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested a 64-year-old man described by authorities as a serial suspect linked to airport-following robberies, after the armed robbery of three senior police officials from an African country.
The arrest was confirmed by the South African Police Service, which said officers tracked the suspect within hours after the crime was reported.
According to police, the three senior officials were travelling in an e-hailing vehicle on Saturday afternoon when the car was stopped by four men driving a silver Suzuki Swift.
“Once the e-hailing driver had pulled over on the side of the R24, the men posed as police officers and thereafter robbed the police general and two other officers of money, watches and cellphones,” police said.
Authorities said the suspects fled the scene but were traced shortly afterwards, leading to the arrest of the 64-year-old suspect.
Police also seized a Suzuki Swift believed to have been used in multiple crimes, mostly along the R24 near the Barbara off-ramp towards the airport.
#sapsHQ Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested a 64-year-old serial airport following robber. Police have also seized a Suzuki swift that is believed to have been used numerous times in the commission of crimes that mostly took place on the R24 near the Barbara… pic.twitter.com/KqODh3mcEQ
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 1, 2026
The suspect is alleged to be a repeat offender with a long criminal history. Police said investigations revealed that he had previously been arrested and charged in connection with 42 other cases dating back to 1998.
These cases include armed robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm, fraud and impersonating a police officer.
Police believe the arrest has dealt a significant blow to a criminal network targeting travellers.
“Police believe they have broken the back of a syndicate that has been involved in airport following robberies,” the statement said.
Authorities added that an investigation is underway to determine how a suspect with such a record was able to remain free.
“An investigation is also underway to ascertain how a serial robber of this nature is still roaming the streets of South Africa and not convicted and serving time in a jail cell,” police said.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
Police are continuing their search for three other suspects believed to have participated in the robbery.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
