Truck drivers using the N6 near Lesseyton outside Komani are being warned to remain vigilant after a diesel tanker was allegedly stoned, causing it to leave the national road on Tuesday morning.
According to Komani News, Eastern Cape SAPS spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela confirmed that two trucks were targeted in the incident.
SAPS reportedly said the alleged attackers were schoolboys from the Lesseyton area who are currently on school holidays.
One of the targeted trucks was carrying more than 40,000 litres of diesel when stones were allegedly thrown at it. The driver subsequently lost control and the tanker left the N6, coming to rest in a ditch.
The incident also created an additional recovery challenge because of the amount of diesel being carried. A tow truck was reportedly brought in to recover the tanker but was struggling with the load.
Watch: Pedestrian killed after food delivery truck being stoned overturns
Truckers urged to stay alert
Public Order Police were reportedly deployed to monitor the situation.
There has been no confirmation in the available reports of serious injuries to the drivers.
For truckers travelling through the Lesseyton area, the incident is a reminder to stay alert, particularly when approaching areas where groups of people are gathered close to the road.
Drivers should not stop to confront anyone if stones are being thrown. If it is safe to do so, create distance from the danger area and report the incident to the authorities and your control room once you are in a safe location.
For fuel tankers and other hazardous-load vehicles, the consequences of a stone strike can be particularly serious. A driver losing control can turn a roadside attack into a major crash, especially when carrying thousands of litres of fuel.
The N6 remains an important freight route, and truckers travelling through Lesseyton should keep their eyes up and be prepared to react to any danger near the roadway.
SA Trucker will continue monitoring the situation for further information from SAPS and traffic authorities.
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