The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has launched a manhunt for three suspects following a violent carjacking incident in Bushbuckridge.

The crime took place on Friday evening, 6 February 2026, at around 21:30 in Mandela Village. According to police, the victim was driving a white Toyota Quantum when he arrived at his home and stopped at the gate to open it. As he returned to the vehicle, he was confronted by two unknown men, one of whom was armed with a firearm.

The armed suspect forced the complainant back into the vehicle, while the second suspect ordered him to lie down and stood on top of him while pointing the firearm at him. The suspects then drove off with the victim, later picking up a third suspect at an unknown location.

After driving around for some time, the victim was dropped off at a nearby graveyard, where he was searched and robbed of a Samsung Galaxy A04 cellphone and R200 in cash. He was warned not to look back as the suspects fled the scene with the vehicle.

The stolen items are estimated to be worth approximately:

• Toyota Quantum: R500,000

• Samsung Galaxy A04 cellphone: R1,500

The suspects are described as three unknown men who were speaking different languages. At this stage, no arrests have been made, and investigations are ongoing.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, strongly condemned the incident and called on the community to assist police.

“Carjacking remains a serious and violent crime that poses a threat to the safety of our communities. We urge residents to work closely with the police by sharing any information that may assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Communities are reminded to remain vigilant and to prioritise their personal safety at all times,” he said.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Cindy Mkhabela on 082 469 1298, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or report anonymously via the MySAPS App.