‘Hijacked’ truck driver arrested in crime plot twist
The 11 arrested suspects, aged between 39 and 50, are expected to appear in the Durban Magistrate's Court today, Wednesday, 22 January for theft and for being in possession of stolen property.
ELEVEN men have been arrested and are expected to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court today following the hijacking of a truck. The goods, estimated to the value of R1.5million, were later discovered in KwaMakhutha.
The truck was allegedly stolen in Maydon Wharf on Friday, 17 January and police later recovered its trailer and emptied container in Jacobs.
The incident was reported by the truck driver on Friday at Umkomaas police station. In a plot twist, it was later discovered that the driver sold the truck to the suspects.
“While at the scene, the team received more information which led them to Isipingo where six suspects were arrested and four vehicles which were believed to be used in the commission of the crimes were seized. The seized vehicles included a Polo, Mercedes Benz, Run X and an Audi,” said SAPS’ provincial spokesperson, Brigadier Jay Naicker.
“The driver alleged that he was leaving the harbour when he was ambushed by a group of people who robbed him and drove away with his truck,” said Brigadier Naicker.
“Within hours of the incident being reported, police officers together with a tracking company managed to trace the truck to the N2 freeway near the Umgababa off-ramp where it was left abandoned.”
On Tuesday, 21 January, devoted officers from various units as well as other role players followed up on information which led them to a warehouse in Isipingo.
The warehouse was searched and some of the cargo was recovered. Four men were arrested and charged for being in possession of the stolen property.
“Police discovered that the truck driver who alleged to have been hijacked at Maydon Wharf sold the truck with the goods to the suspects. They proceeded to KwaMakhutha, where the driver was found hiding and he was subsequently arrested. The operation is ongoing and more suspects are expected to be arrested,” said Brigadier Naicker.
The 11 arrested suspects aged between 39 and 50 are expected to appear at the Durban Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday, 22 January for theft and for being in possession of stolen property.
Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Khombinkosi Jula commended the police officers for their dedication and for ensuring the suspects are arrested.
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