DELAREYVILLE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West has dismissed social media claims that members of the public looted a burnt truck on the Geysdorp/Delareyville Road, saying the information being circulated is false and misleading.

According to SAPS, police responded to reports of a burning Scania truck and two trailers about 20 kilometres outside Delareyville at approximately 05:50 on Thursday, 2 July 2026. Preliminary information indicates that a tyre allegedly burst, causing a fire that the driver was unable to extinguish.

The truck and one trailer were extensively damaged. The trailers were transporting bags of maize meal.

Police said that after the local Fire Department had extinguished the fire, the owner of the cargo gave community members permission to collect the remaining undamaged maize meal bags. SAPS stressed that no looting occurred, no criminal conduct was reported, and no criminal case was opened in relation to the collection of the goods.

The incident was recorded as a damage report, and no injuries were reported.

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo urged the public to verify information before sharing it on social media, warning that false claims can unfairly damage the reputation of communities, create unnecessary tension and undermine public trust.

He also commended the cooperation between the Fire Brigade, Provincial Traffic, the Farmers’ Union Control Room, the truck owner and community members for their responsible conduct during the incident.

-The VIP Team 

-SAPS NW