A TRUCK carrying a load valued at approximately R200 000 was recently targeted by criminals after it became stranded on the M7 when it ran out of fuel while travelling from Durban to Johannesburg.

The driver was forced to wait overnight for fuel, which was only expected to arrive the following morning.

Shortly after midnight, suspects stole the truck’s cargo, highlighting the risks associated with stopping in isolated areas.

The incident has prompted Pinetown SAPS to remind truck drivers and motorists that proper planning and vigilance remain essential in preventing crime.

Commander of the Pinetown SAPS Property Crime Investigation Group, Captain Yvette Kleynhans, urged truck drivers to ensure they have sufficient fuel to safely reach their next secure stopping point.

Kleynhans, together with her team comprising constables Philani Ndwalane, Gugu Duma, Lindokuhle Ntuli and Thabisile Sithole, investigates property-related crimes including house break-ins, burglaries at residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicles, theft out of motor vehicles, and the use of motor vehicles without the owner’s consent.

The team has recorded a slight increase in these crimes within the Pinetown policing precinct.

Areas identified as theft-from-motor-vehicle hotspots include Westmead, Kings, Underwood, Louis Walter and Josiah Gumede roads, the N3, M13 and M7 highways, Chancery Lane, Berkshire Drive, Schallenberg Street, Willow Crescent, Eastleigh Place, Francis Lane, and Rushbrook and Chapel streets.  

In one recent incident, suspects smashed a vehicle window and stole cellphones, laptops, tyres and batteries.

Motor vehicle theft also remains a concern, with Kings, Hagart and Josiah Gumede, Nipper, Harvey, Posselt, Manchester, Wilshire, Albert, Franz Volek and Kruger roads, Robertson Avenue, St John’s Avenue and Payne Street identified as priority areas.

Utility bakkies, hatchbacks and mini-SUVs remain the most commonly targeted vehicles.

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Kleynhans also cautioned security personnel at vehicle dealerships to verify the identity and authorisation of test drivers before allowing vehicles to leave the premises.

“This is how we lost three high-value vehicles in one case last year,” she said.

Pinetown SAPS communications officer Jennifer Naidu appealed to truck drivers and motorists to make safety and crime prevention a priority before and during every journey.

“We cannot always predict when a vehicle will experience a mechanical problem or emergency but we can reduce opportunities for criminals through proper planning.

“Truck drivers should ensure they have sufficient fuel before departing and avoid stopping in isolated areas whenever possible.

“Motorists should remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times.

“Keep vehicle windows fully closed, avoid using your cellphone while driving or while stopped at traffic lights, and ensure handbags, laptops, cellphones and other valuables are locked away in the boot before starting your journey.

“If you suspect you are being followed, do not drive home. Change your route and proceed to the nearest police station, busy fuel station or another well-lit public place where assistance can be obtained.

“We also encourage members of the public to report suspicious persons or activities immediately. A single phone call could prevent a crime or assist police in apprehending suspects.

“Crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility and together we can make it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate within our communities,” she said.

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