A truck owner is facing a terrifying ordeal after receiving a ransom demand of R150 000 following the hijacking of his vehicle and the kidnapping of the driver along the N4 near Panorama, Mpumalanga.
The incident occurred around 12h07 on 27 April 2025, when the tracking unit on a 2020 white Mercedes-Benz Actros 2645 (registration number HVV352FS) was compromised.
The truck was hauling a GRW silver tri-axle resin tanker trailer (registration CL 08 NJ ZN) and a pup trailer (registration CL 08 PN ZN), all with LBH branding.
According to information received, shortly after the tracking unit lost signal, the truck owner received a chilling message from the driver’s cellphone demanding a ransom of R150,000.
Read | Truck driver allegedly kidnapped near Lebombo border post
The kidnappers threatened to kill the driver if the money was not paid.
No further contact details were provided, and the driver’s whereabouts remain unknown.
The last known location of the truck was recorded near Panorama on the N4.
Authorities are investigating and have appealed to anyone who may have information about the vehicle or the driver to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Danie Day at 083 7788 560 or report sightings to the nearest police station.
Police have warned the public not to approach the suspects if the truck is sighted but to contact law enforcement immediately.
Investigations are ongoing.
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