A Toyota Fortuner valued at R339,200 has been forfeited to the state after police discovered six explosives concealed inside the vehicle during a routine patrol in Dientjie, Mpumalanga.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), working with the National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA) Asset Forfeiture Unit, secured the forfeiture order in the High Court on October 12, 2026.
According to Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, the vehicle was initially seized on March 12, 2025, after police officers stopped a white Toyota Fortuner during a routine patrol at approximately 12.30pm.
How police discovered explosives inside the Toyota Fortuner
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered two explosives labelled "Super Power" inside a cup holder next to the gear lever.
A further search uncovered four additional explosives of the same type concealed inside the vehicle's left front door panel.
Both occupants were arrested and detained at the Dientjie Police Station.
The Toyota Fortuner was seized and registered as an exhibit as part of the investigation.
High Court grants forfeiture order worth R339,200
More than a year after the vehicle was seized, the Hawks and the NPA's Asset Forfeiture Unit successfully obtained a forfeiture order.
The High Court granted the order on October 12, 2026, allowing the state to forfeit the Toyota Fortuner valued at R339,200.
The forfeiture forms part of law enforcement efforts to prevent assets linked to criminal activities from remaining in the hands of offenders.
Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Brigadier Bruce Davenport, welcomed the court order and praised the cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
"This forfeiture sends a clear message that crime does not pay. The Hawks remain resolute in ensuring that individuals involved in criminal activities are not only brought before the courts but are also deprived of the resources and assets that facilitate or benefit their unlawful conduct," Davenport said.
"We will continue working closely with our law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard our communities from serious and organised crime."
The Hawks said the forfeiture demonstrated the importance of asset recovery in combating serious and organised crime.
How to report suspicious explosives or criminal activity
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving explosives or other illegal substances.
Information can be reported to the nearest police station or anonymously through the SAPS Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
IOL