Update: Truck drivers arrested after protesting on the N3 at Van Reenen, KZN

Reports have come in that some of the truck drivers who were part of the protest today (June 20) on the N3 have been arrested.

A well-planned operation resulted in at least a hundred of the protesters being arrested.

Landing in a police chopper just after 4pm, a team of officers, led by Acting Provincial General Lucky Mkhwanazi, walked at least 1.5km before pouncing on the men and catching them off-guard.

Read initial story: Warning: Protest action on the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass

Also read: Watch: Truck drivers protest on N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass (KZN)

The dynamic team of officers waited for dusk before going in.

One of the men arrested, who is believed to be the leader, will be charged for incitement of violence.

Read also: Must See: Van Reenen’s Pass is closed due to truck protest on the N3

Also read: Watch: Member of Parliament on scene at truck drivers’ protest on N3, Van Reenen

Read also: Update: Minister condemns the blocking of the N3 at Van Reenen

All the suspects will be detained at various police stations.

South African truck drivers were protesting regarding a wage dispute and are demanding that no foreigners be permitted to drive trucks in South Africa.

The N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass is still blocked and motorists are urged to delay their trips or use alternate routes.

Alternate routes are as follows:

R74 – via Oliviershoek Pass

R34/N11 – Vrede/Newcastle/Ladysmith

R23 – via Heidelberg/Standerton/Volksrust/Ladysmith

Law enforcement officers and emergency services have been deployed to the area.

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