A truck driver fled the scene in need of help after alleged armed hijackers ambushed the driver on the Ogies road near the N12 on-ramp. This incident occurred on June 10 at 01:40 in the morning.

The incident took place while the victim, driving a Volvo truck with two trailers, was making his way from Clewer to Delmas after delivering coal. While approaching the N12 on-ramp, he heard a loud noise and pulled over to investigate.

Suddenly, a white Quantum taxi stopped nearby, and five unidentified males jumped out, allegedly pointing firearms at him.

The hijackers forced the driver back into his truck’s rear section, while one of them took control of the vehicle, making a U-turn toward eMalahleni.

The truck was then diverted into the Mgewana squatter camp, where it was hidden in the bushes.

The driver told police the attackers restrained him by tying his hands with his shoelaces and legs with his belt, forcing him to lie on his stomach while they searched him.

He alleged they took his cellphone and his wallet, demanding his PIN number of his bank card.

While restrained in the bushes, the victim could hear truck tyres being removed.

After a long period of silence, he managed to free himself, make his way to the main road, and find assistance.

Upon assessing the damage, he discovered that the suspects had stolen 18 truck tyres, valued at R250 000.

“Truck drivers are reminded to remain vigilant, as organised hijackings continue to be a major concern on Mpumalanga’s roads. They should also refrain from driving late at night as hijacking cases are a growing concern in eMalahleni,” said Captain Eddie Hall, SAPS spokesperson, as he warns truck drivers.

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