Brothers arrested for robberies and kidnappings

Brits/ Hartbeespoort Dam – A crime intelligence-driven operation led by the Brits Trio Task Team has resulted in the arrest of three brothers — Nyiko Sithole (26), Bennett Sithole (24), and Derrick Sithole (27) — who face charges ranging from house robbery and kidnapping to possession of suspected stolen goods.

Captain Mpho Manyoba reported that the brothers were arrested individually between Tuesday 7 January and Wednesday 8 January 2025, in Winterveldt and Garankuwa. Nyiko was apprehended after his fingerprints linked him to house robbery and kidnapping cases in Hartbeespoort Dam from November 2024. During his arrest, police seized several suspected stolen items.

Further investigation led to the arrests of his brothers. Bennett was implicated by Nyiko and traced to Garankuwa, where he was arrested. Bennett, in turn, implicated his younger brother Derrick, who was arrested on 8 January 2025. A search at Derrick’s home in Soshanguve uncovered a Chevrolet Utility bakkie and other stolen items.

The investigation also led authorities to Morgan Mphela (51), who had bought a suspected stolen Isuzu bakkie from the brothers, intending to chop it for parts. Mphela was charged with possession of suspected stolen goods.

The Sithole brothers are set to make their third appearance in the Brits Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 22 January 2025, following initial appearances on Friday 10 January, and Wednesday 15 January 2025. Mphela will appear separately in the Garankuwa Magistrates’ Court.

The acting provincial commissioner of North West, major general Patrick Asaneng, commended the members of the Trio Task Team for their dedication, which led to the arrests and the recovery of stolen property.

Photo: Stolen items, including suitcases, a flat screen TV, air fryer, gas bottle, and more, recovered.