PICS: R1.2 million Scania truck impounded by police for transporting stolen chrome

A truck valued at about R1.2 million has been impounded by police in Limpopo after it was allegedly used to transport suspected stolen chrome, leading to the arrest of two men.

The two suspects, aged 36 and 42, were arrested on Sunday evening, 11 January 2026, during routine patrols by the South African Police Service along the R579 public road in the Lebowakgomo policing area.

Police said they had received information about a white horse and trailer truck with Mpumalanga registration numbers that was allegedly transporting suspected stolen chrome along the R37 near Mogodi village and heading towards Gauteng.

An immediate search operation was launched and officers later spotted a truck matching the description, accompanied by red side tippers, travelling along the public road. The vehicle was stopped and the two male occupants granted police permission to search it.

During the search, police found the side tippers loaded with chrome. The driver and passenger failed to produce documentation authorising the possession and transportation of the precious metal.

The pair was arrested for the illegal possession and transportation of suspected stolen precious metals, with the chrome estimated to be worth about R150,000.

In addition to the arrests, police impounded the white Scania truck and side tippers worth an estimated R1.2 million, which were allegedly used in the commission of the crime.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. Police said investigations are continuing.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

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