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Three men were arrested in Killarney Gardens, Cape Town, on Thursday after catalytic converters, worth R5 million, were found in their possession.
Catalytic converters are fitted to car exhausts to reduce harmful emissions. Theft of these converters is a problem around the world, due to the precious metals it contains.
Members of the Maitland Flying Squad received information indicating that the cargo of a hijacked truck was stored at a warehouse in Killarney Gardens.
"The members proceeded to the address and, upon arrival at the premises, they accosted two men who were visibly nervous and could not respond to questions posed to them," Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said.
When the vehicle was searched, police confiscated a "huge consignment of catalytic converters".
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"While the team [was] busy with the seizure, a man, claiming to be the manager, arrived at the business premises. He was stopped in his tracks before trying to evade an arrest [sic]," Swartbooi said.
Police searched his vehicle and confiscated more converters, which were concealed in the trunk.
All three were arrested and will be charged with possession of presumed stolen property.
"Once charged, the trio are expected to make a court appearance in the Cape Town Magistrate's Court on the mentioned charge," Swartbooi said.
