The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested a 44-year-old police sergeant attached to the Secunda Flying Squad in connection with a diesel truck hijacking that occurred in Bethal, Mpumalanga, earlier this year.
Members of the Organised Crime Investigation unit in Mpumalanga effected the arrest on the morning of Friday, 4 September 2026. The sergeant is expected to appear in the Bethal Magistrate's Court on Monday, 7 September 2026, on a charge of truck hijacking. He remains in custody pending his court appearance.
Background of the hijacking
According to police, a diesel truck was hijacked in Bethal on 2 May 2026. The case was escalated to the Mpumalanga Provincial Organised Crime Unit for further probe. Investigators worked intensively and made a breakthrough in July 2026, resulting in the arrest of four suspects.
Police officer's alleged involvement
Subsequent investigation indicated that a police officer may have been involved in the planning of the hijacking. A warrant of arrest was obtained for the sergeant and was successfully executed.
Statement from Provincial Commissioner
Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, praised the Organised Crime Investigation team for their work on diesel truck hijackings in the province. She emphasised the service's commitment to rooting out criminality within its ranks.
“The arrest of one of our own members is clear proof that we act without fear or favour and that no one is above the law. One could say it is disappointing and regrettable, but this should send a clear message that we can never tolerate criminality within our ranks. It also demonstrates that the SAPS is committed to cleaning its own house without fear or favour. Those who dare to be involved in corrupt activities within our ranks will not be spared. We commend the Organised Crime Investigation team for their thorough investigation which led to this arrest, and we assure the public that we will continue to act decisively against any member who betrays the badge and brings the Service into disrepute,” said General Modise.
Ongoing efforts
The case forms part of ongoing efforts by SAPS to combat truck hijackings and organise crime in the province.