Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
SOUTH African police have confirmed the hijacking of a haulage truck in Musina involving a Zimbabwean driver who was enroute to Zimbabwe.
In a statement, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said investigations were underway following the incident, which occurred on Saturday (yesterday) along a major transit route frequently used by cross-border transporters.
“The South African Police Service can confirm a case of truck hijacking reported in Musina. The matter is currently under investigation, and efforts are being made to recover the vehicle and apprehend the suspects involved,” read part of the statement.
The truck was being driven by Zimbabwean national Tawanda Chiware from Chivi, who narrated a terrifying ordeal at the hands of heavily armed assailants.
Chiware said the attack happened suddenly, with the suspects intercepting his truck before forcing him to stop.
“I was driving towards Zimbabwe when a group of heavily armed men blocked the road. They pointed guns at me and demanded that I get out of the truck immediately,” he said.
“They threatened to shoot me if I did not comply. I had no choice but to get down. They then drove off with the truck, leaving me stranded,” he added.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of cross-border transporters operating along the South Africa–Zimbabwe corridor, which has in recent years recorded cases of armed robberies and hijackings.
Authorities have urged motorists, particularly haulage truck drivers, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies.
Investigations into the incident are continuing.
Bongani Ndlovu