The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, together with private security partners, arrested two foreign nationals following an intelligence-driven operation in Middelburg on Sunday, 09 August 2026.
The operation was conducted at approximately 15:00 by members of the Provincial Anti-Hijacking Unit and Middelburg Crime Prevention Team, working in collaboration with a local security and drone team.
The team received information regarding a white Toyota Quantum that was reportedly stolen in Vosman. The vehicle was subsequently spotted by a drone operated by the local security and drone team at an industrial area in Middelburg.
Members proceeded to the identified premises, where the vehicle was found parked under a shed. The vehicle had allegedly been partially stripped, while the vehicle identification number (VIN) appeared to have been tampered with.
A foreign national, aged 57, was found in possession of the vehicle and was arrested.
Members of the Middelburg #CrimePrevention Team continued with a search of the premises, during which they discovered approximately 20 litres of suspected stolen hydraulic and transmission oils, as well as antifreeze and coolant products. The items are estimated to have a combined value of approximately R150,000.
A second foreign national was also arrested in connection with the possession of the suspected stolen property.
The two suspects are expected to appear before the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, facing charges relating to the possession of suspected stolen property. Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.
The #SAPS in Mpumalanga commends the members involved, together with the security partners, for their collaborative efforts in combating vehicle-related crime and the trade in suspected stolen property.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities and provide information that may assist the police in preventing and combating crime. Information can be provided by calling #CrimeStop on 08600 10111 or via the #MySAPSApp that can be downloaded from any smartphone.
#FightingCrime #PoliceVisibility #SaferCommunities
