Suspect Wanted After Truck Driver Shot Dead Near Dwarsloop Mall, Bushbuckridge

Police have launched a manhunt following the fatal shooting of a truck driver near Dwarsloop Mall in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night, 6 January 2026, at around 23:00 along the R40 road. According to preliminary information, the driver of an Isuzu side tipper truck had stopped along the roadside to relieve himself when he was confronted by an armed suspect.

It is alleged that the suspect approached the driver without saying a word. Moments later, the suspect reportedly drew a firearm and shot the driver at close range. The driver sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.

After the shooting, the suspect allegedly searched the victim while he lay in a pool of blood and made off with the driver’s personal belongings. The suspect then fled the scene on foot, and no arrests have been made at this stage.

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Emergency services were called to the scene, but the driver was declared dead upon their arrival. The area was secured to allow police to conduct initial investigations, and the truck was later removed.

Read | Truck Driver Shot Dead in R40 Botched Hijacking

Police have opened a case of murder and robbery and are appealing to members of the public for assistance. Anyone who witnessed the incident, noticed suspicious activity in the area at the time, or may have information that could assist in identifying or locating the suspect is urged to come forward.

Authorities have expressed concern over the continued targeting of truck drivers, particularly during night stops along major routes. Investigations are ongoing, and police say they are following up on all available leads.

Anyone with information related to this shooting is requested to contact their nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Information may also be submitted anonymously.