Truck and Fortuner chased as cops bust R126,000 diesel haul

Two suspects are likely to face Delmas Magistrate’s Court following their seizure of stolen diesel, valued at over R120,000, in Mpumalanga. The arrest unfolded during a collaborative effort by the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and Delmas Crime Prevention Unit. Provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Mavela Masondo, revealed that the operation led to the recovery of a truck carrying roughly 4,500 litres of diesel.

"The diesel is estimated to be worth around R126,000," Masondo noted. "On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at approximately 10:50 PM, officers patrolling the N12 near Arbor towards Delmas observed a white truck with a tanker, being pulled by a grey Toyota Fortuner. The officers grew suspicious and attempted to intervene," Masondo explained.

The suspects fled, prompting backup from the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit. Members of the unit successfully halted the truck, while others pursued the Toyota Fortuner. Both vehicles were transported to the local police station for further examination. The driver of the truck attempted to deceive investigators by presenting false invoices.

"During questioning, the truck driver claimed to have procured the diesel, but he provided an outdated invoice with altered figures and a different quantity of litres. The two suspects were apprehended and charged with possession of likely stolen property and reckless and negligent driving. They are anticipated to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court soon," Masondo concluded.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) management praised the teams for their alertness and collaboration in curtailing syndicates allegedly involved in illicit diesel trade and transportation across the province.