Two suspects have been arrested and a truck carrying an estimated 4,500 litres of suspected stolen diesel, worth approximately R126,000, has been recovered following a high-speed chase near Delmas in Mpumalanga.
The arrests followed a joint operation by the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit on Tuesday night, 11 August 2026.
Police members were conducting patrols on the N12 near Arbor towards Delmas at about 22:50 when they spotted a white truck pulling a tanker.
The truck was being escorted by a grey Toyota Fortuner, which raised the suspicions of the police officers.
Members attempted to stop both vehicles, but the drivers allegedly failed to comply. Backup was called in as the officers pursued the vehicles.
Members of the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit eventually managed to stop the truck, while other officers continued the chase and later intercepted the Toyota Fortuner.
Both vehicles were taken to the local police station for further investigation.
During questioning, the truck driver allegedly told police that he had purchased the diesel. However, according to SAPS, he produced an old invoice that showed different figures and a different quantity of fuel.
The diesel was subsequently identified as suspected stolen property.
Read | Suspect arrested, diesel tanker recovered after high-speed chase in Delmas
The two suspects were arrested and face charges of possession of suspected stolen property and reckless and negligent driving.
They are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court soon.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by police to disrupt suspected syndicates involved in the illegal trade and transportation of diesel in Mpumalanga.
Mpumalanga SAPS management commended the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and Delmas Crime Prevention Unit for their vigilance and teamwork in intercepting the vehicles and recovering the suspected stolen fuel.
The investigation is continuing, and the suspects will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations against them through the criminal justice process.
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