An intelligence-driven operation by the South African Police Service Benoni Flying Squad, working alongside a private security company, has led to the recovery of copper worth an estimated R7 million following the hijacking of four trucks on the R21 near Olifantsfontein.
Three suspects were arrested during the operation conducted at plots in the Putfontein policing precinct on Sunday, 10 May 2026.
Police said officers acted on intelligence that led them to a property in Putfontein, where copper believed to be part of the hijacked consignment was recovered. The cargo was positively identified by the owners through serial numbers marked on the copper.
Two suspects found at the property were arrested immediately, while a third suspect was later arrested in Bapsfontein after he was allegedly caught offloading copper from one of the hijacked trailers.
Preliminary investigations led to the recovery of about 1 075 pieces of square copper valued at approximately R7 million. Officers also recovered a private vehicle reported stolen in the Free State in 2019, as well as a truck hijacked in the Vosman policing area in 2025.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges including truck hijacking, possession of suspected stolen property and possession of hijacked vehicles. Investigations are continuing.
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