Durban police have arrested a woman linked to the fraudulent documentation of hazardous chemicals, exposing a scam that put both road users and the environment at risk.
The joint operation, led by the Durban Metro Police Service alongside specialised units, targeted a trucking company suspected of issuing false dangerous goods permits. A court-authorised search warrant was executed, leading to the recovery of key evidence, including:
- A fire department dangerous goods certificate book
- 33 counterfeit certificates
- A fire department stamp
- Laptops, desktops, and cellphones
- 12 USB drives
Authorities say the fake permits allowed trucks to move hazardous chemicals without proper authorisation, bypassing safety protocols designed to protect drivers, the public, and the environment.
Read | Traffic Official and Learner Plead Guilty to Driving License Fraud
Fraudulent Permit Operation Success
Metro Police confirmed that the fraudulent documentation posed a “serious risk” as trucks carrying dangerous goods without legitimate permits may not have met the strict safety requirements needed for transporting chemicals.
“This recovery has disrupted illegal operations and ensured accountability is enforced,” read a statement, commending the collaboration of units involved, including EITT, TSU, Durban Metro Police Trio Crimes Unit, and the Fire Department.
On Tuesday, enforcement teams followed up the raid with a compliance roadblock on South Coast Road, targeting local trucks suspected of operating with falsified documentation. Several trucks were inspected to verify whether their dangerous goods paperwork was legitimate.
A serious threat to trucking safety
Industry stakeholders have raised concerns that such fraudulent practices not only endanger lives but also tarnish the reputation of legitimate operators who comply with the law. With chemical spills and hazardous material crashes posing severe risks, authorities say stamping out such fraud is critical to road safety.
The arrested suspect is expected to face charges relating to fraud, forgery, and contraventions of the National Road Traffic Act.
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