Delivery Van Ambushed in Sabie, Stolen Cigarettes Worth R500k Recovered
By: Vusi Ka Mtfombeni
SABIE – Mpumalanga police have arrested a 30-year-old man following the brazen hijacking and robbery of a cigarette delivery van on the Sabie–White River road yesterday.The incident occurred at around 08:30 when the victims, travelling in a white Haval delivery van, were ambushed by suspects driving a white Kia. Police say the Kia overtook the delivery van, suddenly stopped in front of it, and blocked its path.
Two armed men ,one carrying a pistol and the other a rifle allegedly climbed out of the Kia and pointed their weapons at the delivery staff. The victims were forced out of their van and into the Kia, after which the suspects drove deep into a nearby plantation.Once inside the forest, the armed men ordered the victims to run without looking back.
After the assailants fled, the victims managed to get help from plantation workers, who assisted them in contacting the authorities.Police and vehicle-tracking teams responded swiftly and the hijacked Haval van was later found abandoned along the same road. Officers also noticed tyre tracks leading into the plantation and followed them, eventually discovering a Toyota Quantum loaded with stolen cigarette stock.According to police, 28 boxes of cigarettes valued at approximately R500 000 — had been stolen from the delivery van.
A 30-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene, while the other suspects escaped and remain at large.The arrested suspect is expected to appear in the Sabie Magistrate’s Court today, facing charges of hijacking and robbery.
Police are appealing to anyone with information regarding the remaining suspects to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit details via the MySAPS App. Callers may remain anonymous, and all information will be treated confidentially.
