A Zimbabwean national, believed to be the mastermind behind a truck theft syndicate, has been nabbed by Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA).
It’s alleged that he stole his employer’s FAW truck and disappeared to the Free State province.
A distressed businessman from Shakaskraal, KZN, sought RUSA’s help regarding SAPS Kwa Mashu Cas 373/06/2024.
He alleged that his truck had been stolen by one of his employees, and the case was quickly becoming a tangled web of theft and deceit.
Turns out, this was no ordinary truck thief.
The suspect had a cunning modus operandi: securing employment at various trucking companies across multiple provinces.
After a few weeks, he’d vanish with the load, mechanical horse, and trailers, leaving the company high and dry.
The pattern repeated as he hopped from one trucking firm to another, always staying a step ahead of the law.
Digging deeper, RUSA discovered the suspect was collaborating with several accomplices. Their intel revealed the suspect was a 34-year-old residing in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. According to RUSA, it wasn’t just a one-man show; it was an international syndicate with roots running deep.
Read | PICS: 11 arrested in Durban truck theft syndicate bust
The suspect had made his escape after swiping an FAW truck in June 2024, slipping into the Free State to lie low.
RUSA set up an elaborate sting, luring the fugitive back to KZN. Plain-clothed officers in unmarked vehicles tracked his every move, waiting for the perfect moment.
After hours of surveillance this morning, Wednesday, July 17, they positively identified the suspect. The takedown was smooth and without incident.
For the trucking community, it’s a reminder to stay vigilant and always vet new employees before entrusting them with their property.
The latest SA Trucking News straight to your inbox!
