GAUTENG – Three suspects aged 26, 31, and 35 are expected to appear before the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates Court on Tuesday, on charges of attempted theft of fuel and tempering with infrastructure.
The suspects were caught whilst allegedly tempering with a Transnet’s fuel pipeline in Bronkhorstspruit on Saturday evening when trying to steal fuel. Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation responded swiftly to the information received for further investigation.
Upon arrival at the fuel plant, suspects fled the scene however one was apprehended by the security personnel. In the early hours of Sunday, the investigation team conducted a sting operation at the pipeline where two more suspects were later arrested in a Black Corsa Utility bakkie in the hope of rescuing their accomplice.
Amongst other items seized, police confiscated the bakkie used in the commission of the crime, generator, heavy-duty drill, grinder, chisels, and welding machine. Investigation continues on this matter.