A coordinated operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) led to the successful rescue of a hijacked truck driver and the arrest of a 57-year-old suspect on Thursday, 14 May 2026.
The incident began on Thursday afternoon along the R68 Dundee-Nquthu Road. A truck carrying a driver and his assistant was intercepted by a group of armed suspects traveling in a red sedan. The assailants reportedly opened fire on the vehicle, forcing the driver to pull over.
The abduction and ransom demand
While the driver's assistant managed to escape the scene on foot, the truck driver was forcibly taken and moved into the suspects' vehicle. One of the hijackers drove the truck approximately one kilometer further before abandoning it on the roadside.
Shortly after the confrontation, the owner of the truck was contacted by the kidnappers, who demanded a R100,000 ransom for the safe release of the driver.
Police response and rescue
Following the report, the Glencoe K9 Unit joined forces with detectives and uniformed officers from the Dundee Police Station. By operationalising the intelligence received regarding the ransom and the suspects' movements, police were able to track the group to Glencore.
The victim was located and rescued unharmed just hours after the initial abduction. During the operation, a 57-year-old male suspect was apprehended, and the red sedan used during the commission of the crime was successfully recovered by authorities.
Ongoing investigation
While one suspect is in custody and expected to appear in court shortly, SAPS confirmed that a manhunt is currently underway for the remaining accomplices who fled the scene.
Authorities have praised the quick response of the specialised units involved, citing this as a significant win in the ongoing battle against Trio Crimes in the province.