A man suspected of stealing diesel from trucks parked overnight at Ambrose Park in Durban’s Bayhead area has died after being caught in the act by truck drivers.
The incident occurred last night, and the man reportedly succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at King Edward Hospital in Umbilo.
Videos circulating on social media Thursday morning show the man begging for mercy from an angry group of truckers, allegedly after being caught red-handed siphoning diesel.
Another video, shared shortly after, shows the man severely beaten, with his clothing stained with blood.
It remains unclear who assaulted the suspect.
Authorities were called to the scene and transported him to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
A source close to the incident confirmed to SA Trucker that the man had passed away upon arrival at the hospital.
Diesel thieves have been wreaking havoc in the area, with drivers waking up to find their trucks vandalized and their diesel stolen.
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Just over a week ago, SA Trucker posted pictures of containers and siphoning pipes left behind by the suspects.
At the time, truckers expressed frustration about having to sleep with one eye open because of the diesel thieves.
SA Trucker urges truck drivers who fall victim to crime to exercise caution in handling suspects. Taking the law into one’s own hands can have serious legal and career repercussions, and it’s always advisable to involve law enforcement immediately.
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