Kidnapped, shot dead: Suspect arrested in brutal murder of Zimbabwean businessman and friend

Polokwane – A 56-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the murders of a prominent Zimbabwean businessman and his friend, whose bodies were discovered with gunshot wounds outside Polokwane nearly a year ago.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the suspect was arrested by the Limpopo Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit following an extensive investigation into the killings.

According to police, the victims – a 37-year-old Zimbabwean businessman and his 27-year-old friend – travelled to Dendron on 17 August 2025 to buy stock, including liquor and live chickens.

“It is alleged that on 17 August 2025, a well-known 37-year-old Zimbabwean businessman and his 27-year-old friend travelled to Dendron to purchase stock including liquor and live chickens,” SAPS said in a statement.

Police allege the pair were abducted while travelling along the R521 towards Marowe village.

“The two victims were allegedly kidnapped by four unknown male suspects driving a white Toyota Avanza while traveling along the R521 public road towards Marowe village,” the statement said.

Their bakkie, which was loaded with the purchased goods, was later found abandoned at Ga-Semenya village in Moletjie, outside Polokwane.

The following day, on 18 August 2025, the victims’ bodies were found next to the R37 under the Westenburg policing area.

“On 18 August 2025, the bodies of the two victims were discovered with gunshot wounds along a gravel road next to the R37 public road under Westenburg policing area,” SAPS said.

A case of double murder was initially opened at Westenburg Police Station before being transferred to the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit for further investigation.

Police said a breakthrough came after “lengthy and intensive investigations”, which led detectives to Diepkloof in Gauteng, where the 56-year-old suspect was arrested.

“Following lengthy and intensive investigations, police traced and arrested a 56-year-old male suspect at Diepkloof in Gauteng Province. The suspect is linked to the two counts of murder,” SAPS said.

The suspect is expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 27 July, on two counts of murder.

Police said investigations are continuing.