Police recover stolen vehicle shells in De Deur
An intelligence-driven operation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the De Deur policing precinct has led to the discovery of several stolen and stripped motor vehicles at a notorious dumping site in Sun Valley.
According to a media statement issued on behalf of Sedibeng District Commissioner Major General Nkhensani Mukhwevho, the Sedibeng Crime Intelligence Unit received credible information on 14 June 2026 about a location in Sun Valley that was allegedly being used for the illegal dumping of stolen motor vehicles.
Following the information received, Sedibeng Crime Intelligence conducted surveillance and implemented tactical measures in preparation for a disruptive operation.
On 19 June 2026, a multidisciplinary team comprising Sedibeng Crime Intelligence, De Deur SAPS, Sedibeng K9 Unit, Sedibeng Flying Squad Unit, LCRC Unit, VSS Unit, Expol Security and other role players was mobilised to execute the operation.
Upon accessing the site, authorities discovered numerous motor vehicle shells that had been burnt and stripped of components before being abandoned at the location.
The discovery was made by Sedibeng Crime Intelligence together with its strategic role players during the operation. Investigations are currently underway to trace the original owners of the vehicles and to address further criminal activity linked to the area.
The recovered vehicle shells have been secured and transported to SAPS Vehicle Safeguarding Section (VSS) for further investigation.
Among the vehicles discovered at the scene were a Mercedes-Benz, Audi and VW Polo, with an estimated combined value of approximately R250 000.
Police confirmed that all vehicles with visible VIN numbers were inspected and tested positive as stolen. One of the recovered vehicles has been linked to a hijacking and murder case registered at Kwa-Thema SAPS.
Other vehicles remain unidentified as their VIN numbers had been scratched off and damaged by fire.
Police said the illegal dumping of hijacked and stolen motor vehicles remains a significant challenge within the De Deur policing precinct and surrounding communities. Members of the public are urged not to purchase suspected stolen vehicle parts and to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
De Deur SAPS can be contacted on 016 590 9200, while information can also be reported anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
