‘The hero in her own traumatic incident’: Hitchhiker’s quick thinking cracks robbery case

Wolmaransstad – Three people have been arrested after a woman who was hitchhiking from Wolmaransstad, south-west of Johannesburg to Vryburg was allegedly robbed at gunpoint after accepting a lift from occupants of a white Volkswagen Polo.

The incident happened at about 15:20 on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, along the Wolmaransstad/Schweizer-Reneke Road, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Police said that “about three kilometres outside Wolmaransstad, the driver pointed what appeared to be a firearm at the victim and demanded her money and personal belongings.” She was allegedly dropped off at an isolated area.

However, the victim had concealed her cellphone and managed to photograph the vehicle before it left.

“The photograph was circulated through community groups, resulting in a lookout being issued,” SAPS said.

Following information received by police, two men and a woman aged between 26 and 39 were traced and arrested in Makwassie.

The victim’s belongings were also recovered.

A preliminary investigation found that the firearm allegedly used during the robbery was an imitation firearm. Police said an additional charge under the Firearms Control Act was expected to be added.

The owner of the vehicle has also allegedly been linked to a separate business robbery that took place on Sunday, 9 August, along the Broadbent N12 in Wolmaransstad.

The three suspects are expected to appear before the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 14 August, facing charges related to the alleged robbery, possession of an imitation firearm and the separate business robbery.

North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Adams praised the victim for her quick thinking.

“The quick-thinking victim turned out to be the hero in her own traumatic incident,” Adams said.

“Her heroic efforts are sincerely appreciated and was of great help to the SAPS.”

Police said investigations into the case are continuing.