Police vow tough action against truck burning threats in Gqeberha

• Investigation into Threats Against Truck Operators: The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eastern Cape is actively investigating threats to set trucks alight along the R335, which have been made by groups opposed to hiring foreign drivers.
• Origin of the Threats: The threats originate from a group opposed to the employment of foreign truck drivers by local companies, warning operators not to run their vehicles on the specified day.
• Official Response to Threats: Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner Major General Vuyisile Ncata condemned the threats and emphasized that law enforcement will prevent intimidation and violence.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has confirmed it is investigating threats to torch trucks along the R335 (Addo Road) on Friday, 5 September 2025. Several trucking companies reported being warned not to operate on the day, with threats that their vehicles would be stopped and set alight.

According to information received, the threats come from a group opposed to the employment of foreign truck drivers by local companies.

Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, issued a firm response, saying: “We cannot allow law-abiding community and businesses to be intimidated in this way by being threatened with violence in order for such law breakers to have their way.”

SAPS confirmed that officers, along with security partners, will be deployed to ensure the safety of motorists and trucks in the Nelson Mandela Bay area. Businesses that have received threats are urged to open intimidation cases.

Ncata further warned that perpetrators will face serious consequences if they damage property or attempt violence.

“There are legal avenues, other than the use of violence, to solve issues that affect them. Any law breakers damaging property of others will face the full force of the law,” he said.

The police have reassured the public that all necessary measures are being put in place to maintain order and protect road users on the R335 and surrounding routes.