eMalahleni in Mpumalanga is experiencing a sharp increase in diesel theft in recent months. In the latest reported case, more than 3 000 litres of diesel were stolen by a group of armed robbers.

Last week, a diesel theft case was reported at the Vosman police station. The incident took place in May. It is alleged that six suspects locked security guards inside a hostel.

“They drained 3 790 litres of diesel from two tanks and a diesel bowser. They also took five heavy-duty batteries. According to information, the suspects were driving a Toyota D4D double cab,” says Vosman police spokesperson Captain Lizzy Mhlauli.

“Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of suspects, can contact Detective Hellen Masombuka on 082 303 9938,” she says.

A Clewer resident in eMalahleni, says that bakkies with trailers carrying tanks or empty containers regularly drives past his house at night. They return not long after carrying a much heavier load.

“The containers are filled to the brim, and they buy the diesel from corrupt drivers of companies,” he adds.

In May AfriSam fell victim to armed robbers who overpowered security guards to get to the company’s diesel supply. More and more such incident cases are being reported with a Clewer resident saying vehicles carrying stolen diesel drive past his house on a regular basis.

In December 2021, an estimated R1m worth of diesel was stolen from the Transnet fuel line. Although the suspects have been apprehended it does not seem to deter other thieves from stealing or illegally selling diesel.