DELMAS – Two suspects are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court after police recovered about 4,500 litres of suspected stolen diesel, valued at approximately R126,000, during a joint operation on Tuesday night.
Members of the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and Delmas Crime Prevention Unit intercepted a truck carrying the diesel on the N12 near Arbor, heading towards Delmas, at about 10:50pm.
According to Mpumalanga police, officers were conducting patrols when they noticed a white truck pulling a tanker and being escorted by a grey Toyota Fortuner.
Police became suspicious and attempted to stop both vehicles, but the drivers allegedly failed to stop, prompting officers to call for backup.
Members of the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit managed to stop the truck, while other officers pursued the Toyota Fortuner and intercepted it shortly afterwards.
Both vehicles were taken to the local police station for further investigation.
Police said the truck driver claimed he had purchased the diesel. However, when questioned, he allegedly produced an old invoice reflecting different figures and a different quantity of diesel.
The two suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen property and reckless and negligent driving.
Mpumalanga SAPS spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo commended the officers involved in the operation, saying the interception demonstrated the importance of cooperation between specialised units and local crime prevention teams.
“Mpumalanga SAPS Management has commended the Anti-Hijacking Team and Delmas Crime Prevention Unit for their vigilance and teamwork in intercepting syndicates reported to be involved in the illegal trade and transportation of diesel in the province,” Masondo said.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court, while police investigations into the origin and intended destination of the diesel continue.
