Truck driver returned alive after being kidnapped near Lebombo border post

The police in Komatipoort are investigating a kidnapping incident in which a male truck driver (33) originally from the Eastern Cape Province was reportedly kidnapped near Lebombo Border in Komatipoort on Thursday, 08 December 2022.

According to the report, on the said day, the truck driver is said to have been in Komatipoort waiting in a queue with other trucks which were destined to cross over from South Africa through Lebombo Boarder Post into the country of Mozambique.

It is further indicated that he alighted from the truck to get some food. As he was returning to the truck it is alleged that a group of about four male suspects armed with a firearm, pangas, as well as knives forcefully pulled him and dragged him to the nearby bushes. Upon arrival in the bushes, it is further alleged that his hands and feet were tied and was allegedly assaulted by his assailants where he reportedly sustained some injuries to his head and other parts of his body.

The armed men took his mobile phone which they allegedly used to cash in from his bank account. Thereafter the suspects allegedly ensured that the victim’s family transferred more cash for the sake of his freedom.

Fortunately, on the same evening (08 December 2022) the truck driver somehow got away after being left by the suspects with one of their own. It is said that he could barely walk but managed to make it to the road and got assistance from other truck drivers.

A kidnapping case was eventually opened at Komatipoort Police Station and police began their probe. No one has been arrested so far however police are in pursuit of the suspects. Hence members of the public are urged to come forth with information that may assist in apprehending the perpetrators by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or sending information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

The kidnapping led the truck drivers, the EFF and taxi drivers to block the N4 near the border post protesting against the alleged police’s failure to protect the drivers.

Meanwhile, police dismissed rumours that another truck driver was kidnapped by suspects demanding R50 000 as ransom. The police refute such claims as unfounded and untrue. However, truck drivers are advised if possible not to leave their trucks unless it is compelling for them to do so whilst waiting to be attended to by the officials working at Lebombo Border Post. Whilst police and other law enforcement are working hard to bring perpetrators who target truck drivers at the border as they move out of their trucks, drivers should also work hand in hand with the authorities for their safety.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has vowed that police in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies will continue to work hard to ensure safety for all law-abiding citizens, especially during this festive season. “We trust that the team of investigators, in this case, will bring expected results as they always do so that perpetrators get what they deserve,” said the General.