This story was first published by timeslive.co.za yesterday

By jonk wa Mashamba

info@alexreporter.co.za

The double-cab bakkie was reported to have been stolen at a garage in Sandton

Police at the Lebombo border post in Mpumalanga were stunned to find a stolen bakkie concealed underneath a truckload of “traditional brooms” destined to cross the border into Mozambique.

The bust, captured on video on Saturday, has gone viral.

Police spokesperson Col Donald Mndluli said a manhunt was launched for the driver of the truck who disappeared.

The recovered Ford Ranger was reported as stolen in Sandton last month. Police have launched a manhunt for a suspect following the recovery of a stolen bakkie at the Lebombo port of entry,” said Mndluli.

“The incident, which was captured on a video, which is going viral on social media platforms,occured on Saturday.

“It is believed that the driver was intending to cross the border into Mozambique with the stolen car.”

Mndluli said the truck – piled high with grass brooms – intrigued police at the border post.

“The police at the border were busy with their duties when they noticed a suspicious white one-tonner truck with Mozambican registration number plate fully loaded with traditional brooms,” he said.

” The members became concerned and were convinced that there might be something sinister about the truck. The driver was not available and members got information that he had gone to Sars office to complete certain documents required when crossing the border with goods.”

When police went to look for the driver at the Sars offices he had already given them slip.

“While removing the traditional brooms, police discovered a white Ford Ranger with false registration number plates. On further investigation, police found that the vehicle was reported stolen at a garage in Sandton on November 30 2020.”

Mndluli  urged the public to assist with investigation.

Mndluli asked  anyone with information that could assist police in the investigation to call 013 793 7382 /793 7321, Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information via My SAPS app which can be downloaded to any Smartphone.

He assured all information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.