Durban - A 32-year-old man accused of stealing a grass cutter in Verulam was doused with petrol and set alight.
The victim is currently being taken to hospital in a critical condition, Prem Balram director of Reaction Unit SA confirmed.
Balram said the incident took place in Parkgate, Verulam a short while ago.
"Members of Reaction Unit South Africa were called out to a property off Tottenham Road at approximately 11:12pm after the critically injured man collapsed on the driveway.
"The caller confirmed that the individual had suffered extensive burns to more than 90% of his body.
WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGE
A 32-year-old man was doused with petrol and set alight for allegedly stealing. Picture: RUSA
"Upon arrival the man confirmed that he had a stolen a grass cutting machine from contractors who were working on the roadside in Parkgate."
Balram said the victim claimed he was assaulted by a group of people using hammers and stabbed him before he was doused with petrol and set alight.
"The men then drove off in a white Toyota Hilux bakkie and left him for dead in the bush. The injured man managed to walk to a nearby home and collapsed on the driveway."
Balram said Verulam SAPS were on scene.