Alleged Cape Town Petrol Thief Arrested In Plumstead After Police Sting

An alleged petrol thief linked to several fuel theft incidents across Cape Town was arrested in Plumstead on Monday evening following a joint operation by police and private security.

Authorities had been tracking a black Ford Fiesta after the driver allegedly filled up with R800 worth of petrol at a station in Gatesville, Athlone, on Sunday before driving off without paying.

The same vehicle was allegedly linked to another incident at Engen Simon’s Auto Centre in Goodwood last week, where the driver allegedly left without paying for R500 worth of petrol.

ANPR Technology Helps Track Cape Town Petrol Thief

The suspect was arrested at about 10.04pm during an operation involving Diep River police and Secu Watch Protection.

According to a member of Secu Watch Protection, the suspect was identified using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology.

“He triggered one of our ANPR cameras, which is how we found out he is a regular in the area,” the member said.

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“We followed up with the petrol stations to get case numbers for him, as we knew who he was due to him being a regular in the area.

“When he triggered those cameras, we already had SAPS standing by, waiting for his arrival. When we caught him, he begged and pleaded that we let him go and that he won’t do it again.”

Drugs Allegedly Found Inside Vehicle

The security member said drugs were allegedly discovered inside the suspect’s vehicle during the arrest.

Police spokesperson Thembakazi Mpendukana confirmed that a 36-year-old man had been arrested by Diep River police for possession of drugs.

Mpendukana said the suspect has already appeared in court.

Police investigations into the fuel theft allegations are continuing.