The Hawks and organised crime units arrested the men, 27 to 46, at a fuel plant in Meyerton on Sunday (10/5). They acted on information about a planned robbery.

The premises was put under surveillance. During the operation, investigators observed two fuel tankers entering the premises under suspicious circumstances.

News 24 reports preliminary investigations revealed the fuel plant had allegedly been placed under administration, raising further questions about the legality of activities taking place at the site.

“The security personnel guarding the premises might be in cahoots with the nine suspects arrested,” said Free State Hawks spokesperson Christopher Singo.

Some of the suspects are foreign nationals while others are SA citizens. “But for now, we don’t have any information whether there are any police involved. So that is the matter that is under investigation.”

#sapsHAWK [UPDATE] 11 Suspects aged between 27 and 46 have been arrested at a Meyerton fuel plant by the members of the #Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section, Hawks' Non Ferrous Section Headquarters, Vaal Rand Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Gauteng Traffic Police… https://t.co/Ht1oOBW2DR pic.twitter.com/7EArFiI9PC

— SA Police Service ???? (@SAPoliceService) May 10, 2026

Car security system installer Cartrack warned fuel theft poses significant safety risks, especially if it involves meddling with vital components of the vehicle. It potentially jeopardises the safety of drivers and other motorists if the driver is unaware of the potential vehicle damage.

Cartrack has tips to protect your fleet:

• Secure fuel tanks: To discourage would-be thieves, use strong locking systems on your fuel tanks.
• Educate your drivers: Educate your drivers on fuel-efficient driving practices, including maintaining consistent speeds, minimising idling time, and planning optimal routes to reduce fuel consumption.
• Install surveillance systems: Consider installing visible surveillance cameras at fuelling stations and parking areas.
• Improve your tracking system: Invest in a tracking system to closely monitor your fuel consumption and track vehicle movements in real time.
• Establish clear guidelines: Create and implement clear fuel usage guidelines for your company.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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