Mpumalanga authorities are in search of a man who was seen exiting a truck that was attempting to cross the Lebombo border with a stolen bakkie.
Patrolmen stumble on stolen bakkie hidden in brooms
According to police, the truck was immediately flagged for a search when it was seen carrying an abnormally large load of traditional grass brooms.
“The members became concerned and were convinced that there might be something sinister about the truck,” police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhuli said in a statement.
Inspecting the abandoned truck, patrolmen found a white Ford Ranger with South African registration plates. Upon scanning its registration information for possible bulletins, it was discovered that the Ranger was reported stolen in Sandton, six days ago.
By that time, the driver of the truck had long disappeared. Authorities believe the suspect launched his escape when he realised his fate.
“Members got information that he had gone to SARS offices to complete certain documents required when crossing the border with goods,” Col. Mdhuli added.
Of course, this wasn’t the case, police came to find out. The suspect — believed to be male — is still at large and authorities are relying on the process of the Ford Ranger theft case to track him down.
Watch: Ford Ranger found hidden in brooms, on a truck
Video footage of the scene where the truck was discovered has surfaced on social media. It was taken by an eyewitness and if anything, it exposed the insipid attempt made by the suspect to conceal a stolen bakkie.
You can watch the video below: