Bakkie crashes into popular takeaway spot
Owner of Hike & Takeaways, Bowdjema Azzeddine, said he was alerted to the crash in the early hours of the morning and was left shocked by the extent of the damage.
A popular takeaway outlet in Potchefstroom sustained significant damage in the early hours of Sunday morning after a motorist ploughed through its wall.
The incident occurred at 05:46 on May 17 along Albert Luthuli Drive, when a grey Toyota bakkie reportedly lost control while approaching from the direction of the bridge. The vehicle veered off course and crashed directly into the back entrance of Hike & Takeaways.
Emergency services, including ER24 and tow truck operators, responded swiftly to the scene to assist and secure the area.
Owner of Hike & Takeaways, Bowdjema Azzeddine, said he was alerted to the crash in the early hours of the morning and was left shocked by the extent of the damage.
“I was called about the accident at my shop and I couldn’t believe what had happened,” Azzeddine said. “I’ve owned the business for five years, and this is by far one of the worst incidents we’ve experienced.”
He explained that, in addition to the structural damage to the building’s outer wall, a generator was severely damaged and stock had to be discarded after being contaminated by motor oil and dust.
“We had to throw away stock because it became a safety hazard. The losses are quite significant.”
Azzeddine also raised concerns about ongoing road safety issues in the area, describing the nearby stop sign as dangerous and being ignored by motorists.
“This area is prone to accidents. Just two days before this, there was another crash at the four-way stop. It’s a constant problem, people drive recklessly and skip the stop signs,” he added.
See the video here: (Videos – Supplied)
According to information received, two people were in the vehicle at the time of the crash. The driver sustained serious injuries and remains in hospital. It is yet to be established what injuries the second occupant sustained.
Bertus Huisamen, estate agent and manager of the building, said immediate action was taken to secure the premises following the incident.
“We had to act quickly and arrange security for the shop because the broken wall made it possible for people to access the storeroom,” Huisamen said. “For now, it’s about keeping the property secure until the wall can be rebuilt.”
The Herald will add further updates to the story once received.
