Two suspects are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court soon after they were found in possession of stolen diesel worth over R120,000 in Mpumalanga.
The suspects were arrested during a joint operation by the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and Delmas Crime Prevention Unit.
The provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Mavela Masondo, said the operation resulted in the recovery of a truck loaded with an estimated 4,500 litres of diesel.
“The diesel is valued at approximately R126,000,” Masondo said.
“On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at about 10.50pm, while members were conducting patrols on the N12 near Arbor towards Delmas, they spotted a white truck with a tanker, being escorted by a grey Toyota Fortuner. The members became suspicious and attempted to intercept both vehicles,” Masondo said.
He said the vehicles failed to stop, and backup was requested by the officers.
“Members of the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit successfully stopped the truck, while other members continued with the chase and later intercepted the Toyota Fortuner as well,” Masondo said.
Both vehicles were taken to the local police station for further investigation.
According to police, the truck driver tried to fool them with false invoices.
“During questioning, the driver of the truck alleged that he had purchased the diesel but produced an old invoice with different figures and a different quantity of litres. The two suspects were arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen property and reckless and negligent driving. They are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court soon,” Masondo said.
The SAPS management has commended the teams for their vigilance and teamwork in intercepting syndicates reported to be involved in the illegal trade and transportation of diesel in the province.
