In a decisive move against organised crime, the Asset Forfeiture Investigation Unit has locked down two high-stakes preservation orders on vehicles involved in cases of theft and bribery.
The Nelspruit High Court orders, issued on September 17 and October 9, target a white Isuzu bakkie and a white Nissan truck — effectively freezing their use or sale, as authorities push forward with legal action.
The first incident occurred on February 6, 2019, when police and traffic officers stopped a white Isuzu bakkie near Leeuwfontein, Vaalbank area.
The vehicle was transporting cattle, but the driver could not produce a valid permit or explain who owned the cattle. Investigators found that the cattle had been stolen the previous night.
“The driver was asked who was the owner of the cattle and the permit to transport was requested. He failed to give a clear explanation and also failed to produce a permit,” said police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Thandi Tshabalala.
The vehicle was confiscated, and the driver arrested.
In a separate case, on May 3, 2021, police stopped a white Nissan truck on the N12 in Delmas, loaded with metal gas bottles.
Police questioned the owner, identified as Pitso Koos Mohape, who attempted to bribe police officers with R6,000 for the release of the truck and its occupants. He later returned with R5,560, attempting to complete the bribe. The vehicle and the cash were seized.
“Mr Mohape offered to give the police R6,000 for the truck, together with three occupants to be released,” Tshabalala said.
Both preservation orders were issued by the Nelspruit division of the High Court.
Brigadier Danie Hall, acting provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (known as the Hawks), applauded the successful operation and issued a stern warning.
“We want to send a strong message out there that we will not tolerate criminals benefiting from crime activities and that we will address them as such,” he said.
IOL