Hijackings and robberies of heavy-load vehicles are becoming rife in areas along the N4. The Mpumalanga provincial police are concerned about this after receiving a number of reports of truck drivers who were victims of the crimes.

The police have cautioned motorists to be extra careful also when driving along the R548, R42 and the N12 in Delmas, and the Bethal Road.

A Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, requested the community to be vigilant and to avoid stopping next to the road for any reason. “It is advisable to stop at a much safer place than to become the next victim.”

“The warning comes after a number of truck drivers reportedly indicated that they had stopped next to the road, either to relieve themselves or to stretch their feet, when a group of suspects would emerge from the bush and point their firearms at them,” he said.

“There were also incidents in which hijackers would inform the truck drivers that there was something wrong with the trailers. As soon as they stopped, the suspects would pounce. At times the suspects would cut fuel pipes, so that the diesel drains. In those incidents, batteries as well as cellphones would be taken from the victims.”

Three suspects have since been arrested in connection with hi-jacking related crimes in Middelburg.

Mohlala urged the public to assist in arresting suspects of such crimes. They could call 013 249 1600/1/2/4 or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.

Alternatively members of the public can send information via the My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.