Police intercept truck and Fortuner, seize R126,000 of diesel in Mpumalanga

Two suspects have been arrested after police recovered a truck carrying an estimated 4,500 litres of stolen diesel, valued at approximately R126,000, in Mpumalanga.

Interception on the N12

The Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and the Delmas Crime Prevention Unit carried out a joint operation that led to the recovery. Police spotted a white truck with a tanker being escorted by a grey Toyota Fortuner on the N12 near Arbor towards Delmas on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, at about 10:50pm, according to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo.

Vehicles failed to stop, chase ensued

Masondo said officers became suspicious and attempted to intercept both vehicles, but the vehicles failed to stop and backup was requested. The Delmas Crime Prevention Unit successfully stopped the truck, while other members continued the pursuit and later intercepted the grey Toyota Fortuner.

Questions over ownership and charges

Both vehicles were taken to the local police station for further investigation. During questioning, the truck driver produced an invoice that police said was old and showed different figures and a different quantity of litres.

The two suspects were arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen property and reckless and negligent driving, and are expected to appear in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court soon, Masondo said.

Police response

“The diesel is valued at approximately R126,000,”

Masondo provided the valuation and confirmed the recovery of the fuel.

The South African Police Service management commended the involved teams for their vigilance and teamwork in intercepting syndicates reported to be involved in the illegal trade and transportation of diesel in the province.