The truck driver who was initially reported to have escaped after his side-tipper truck plunged into the sea at the Port of Coega in Gqeberha has sadly died.
SA Trucker has received new information indicating that the driver drowned after reportedly becoming trapped inside the submerged truck.
The incident happened earlier on Wednesday evening under circumstances that remain unknown.
According to witnesses, the driver was seen attempting to get out of the truck after it entered the water. However, he reportedly struggled to break the cab window and was unable to escape before the rescue operation could reach him.
The driver tragically drowned, with information received by SA Trucker indicating that his body was retrieved from the water at around midnight.
Videos shared on social media show the dramatic aftermath, with the horse and first trailer completely submerged while the second trailer remained visible above the water.
It is believed the truck was carrying manganese, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
Correction to our earlier report
SA Trucker’s initial report stated that the driver had managed to escape from the submerged truck and return to safety.
That information was incorrect.
At the time, we reported the information available to us, but subsequent information from witnesses and those familiar with the recovery operation has established that the driver sadly did not survive.
We have therefore published this follow-up to correct the record and provide readers with the latest information.
We sincerely apologise for the incorrect information in our initial report, particularly to the driver’s family, friends and colleagues.
The circumstances surrounding the incident, including what caused the truck to plunge into the sea, remain under investigation.
SA Trucker will continue following the story and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
Our condolences go to the driver’s family, colleagues and loved ones during this difficult time.
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