Three Mozambican nationals were arrested while in possession of suspected stolen diesel. Image: Supplied
Three foreign nationals arrested when found with 600 litres of diesel
During routine patrols, three foreign nationals were arrested when they were found to be in possession of 600 litres of stolen diesel
Three Mozambican nationals were arrested while in possession of suspected stolen diesel. Image: Supplied
Three Mozambican nationals were arrested on Friday, 2 December, with 600 litres of suspected stolen diesel.
This during routine patrols conducted by Middleburg police.
Men arrested after they could not provide proof they purchased the diesel
Middelburg police officers from the Crime Prevention Unit were patrolling at Vaalbank Village, near the Black Watlo mine outside Middleburg.
Here they spotted a suspicious vehicle, a white Toyota Hilux, with three men inside.
The vehicle was stopped, and a search was conducted, during which 25-litre containers of diesel were discovered inside the vehicle.
There were a total of 24 containers discovered.
According to reports, none of the three men could provide proof of purchase or a clear explanation of who owned the fuel they were transporting, so they were all arrested.
Both the diesel and the vehicle were seized for further investigation.
Suspects appear in court
The suspects appeared in the Middleburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 2 December, on charges of possession of the suspected stolen property.
Their case was adjourned until Friday, 6 December, for a formal bail application; the three were remanded in custody in the meantime.
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The three suspects are as follows:
- Antonio Munguambe, 28
- Rivage Alzido Juliao, 26
- Tali Alberte, 25
Police are working with the Department of Home Affairs to determine their legal status in the country.
“The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela is delighted about the commitment displayed by the members.” A statement read.
Manamela also stated that police will remain vigilant and will prosecute anyone who chooses to be on the wrong side of the law.
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