A family in the Eastern Cape is making an urgent appeal to the public to help them find a stolen vehicle belonging to their uncle. The vehicle, a Toyota Hilux Long Base with registration number *KPP 858 EC*, was stolen in the early hours of the morning in Machibini, Kwa Bhaca, also known as Mount Frere.
According to the family, the theft happened while their uncle was away. The family says their uncle had gone to attend a traditional ceremony in Makhambula. He left his vehicle at home, believing it was safe.
This is where the story takes a painful twist. The family alleges that a man who had presented himself as someone who came to look after cattle, is actually the person who stole the vehicle. The suspect reportedly took advantage of the uncle being at work and at the ceremony, and fled with the vehicle.
The vehicle was taken at around 7 o’clock in the morning. The family says the suspect came from Johannesburg, commonly known as eGoli, and they strongly suspect that he may be heading back to Gauteng with the stolen bakkie.
The vehicle was last seen leaving Machibini, Kwa Bhaca. The family is now in distress and is asking anyone who may have seen the vehicle, or who may have any information about its whereabouts, to come forward and assist.
The stolen bakkie is described as a Toyota Hilux Long Base, white in color, with registration number KPP 858 EC. The Toyota Hilux is one of the most common bakkies on South African roads, but the family believes the registration number will make it easier to identify.
They are urging taxi drivers, truck drivers, petrol attendants, and members of the public on the N2 route between Mount Frere, Mthatha, Kokstad, and Johannesburg to be on the lookout.
The theft has left the family devastated. For many families in rural areas like Machibini, a vehicle is not just a mode of transport, it is a livelihood.
It is used for farming, for taking children to school, for attending ceremonies, and for work. Losing it in such a deceptive manner has been a huge blow to the uncle and the entire extended family.
The incident also raises concerns about a growing trend of criminals who use false pretences to gain the trust of rural families. Pretending to be workers, cattle herders, or people looking for piece jobs, only to steal vehicles and livestock when the owners are not around.
The family has reported the matter and is now appealing to the power of social media and community networks. They believe that if the post is shared widely, someone, somewhere, will spot the vehicle.
If you have any information that can lead to the recovery of the Toyota Hilux Long Base KPP 858 EC, you are kindly requested to contact the family immediately. You can send a message or call the following numbers: 063 594 2895 or 071 857 6391.
Even the smallest piece of information could help. If you saw a white Toyota Hilux Long Base with registration KPP 858 EC on the road from Mount Frere to Kokstad, Matatiele, Pietermaritzburg or Johannesburg this morning, please contact the family or your nearest police station.
The family is also urging anyone who spots the vehicle not to confront the driver alone, as he may be dangerous, but to immediately contact the South African Police Service on 10111 or report to the nearest police station.
The family says they will appreciate any help, including sharing this article on Facebook, WhatsApp groups, and other community groups. Every share increases the chance of finding the vehicle.
This is a developing story. Shisa News SA will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. The family is hoping for a positive outcome and is thanking the public in advance for their support and ubuntu during this difficult time.
Please help bring KPP 858 EC home.
