A truck driver and his crew member were kidnapped and robbed of a Hino truck worth an estimated R1.5 million after being lured to a fake pickup point near Akasia in Tshwane.
South African Police Service has now issued an urgent warning to transport operators, truck drivers and courier companies about a growing truck hijacking modus operandi involving false collection locations and suspects posing as company representatives or security officers.
According to SAPS, the incident happened on Friday, 22 May 2026 at around 14:00 along the R566 Road near Rama City within the Akasia policing precinct.
Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said the complainant and his crew member were driving a white Hino truck to Rosslyn to collect rubber mats after receiving instructions from a person identified only as “George”.
The crew reportedly followed navigation directions along the R566 until the location suddenly ended. Moments later, they were approached by an unknown African male who introduced himself as “Chabi” and allegedly claimed he had been sent by George to escort them to the collection point.
The victims followed the suspect past Rama City onto a gravel road leading into a bushy area.
Once there, they were ambushed by two armed suspects dressed as security officers.
Police said the suspects pointed firearms at the victims and ordered them out of the truck before tying their hands and feet inside the bushes. The suspects then fled with the white Hino truck.
After several hours, the victims managed to free themselves and walked back to the R566 Road, where a passing motorist assisted them and contacted Akasia SAPS.
Fortunately, no injuries or gunshots were reported during the incident.
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Police believe criminals are increasingly targeting truck drivers using fake loading points, false delivery instructions and impersonation tactics to isolate victims before hijacking vehicles.
SAPS is urging transport operators and drivers to verify all collection points directly with clients before travelling, avoid following unknown individuals to isolated areas, and continuously share live locations with employers or family members during trips.
Drivers are also being warned to remain cautious when approached by individuals claiming to represent security companies or clients, especially in unfamiliar areas.
The suspects remain at large, and investigations are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
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