Protest actions in Port St Johns have seen the police removing trucks that protestors used to blockade roads that connect the town with other towns.
According to police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, the protest that began on Wednesday, October 12 escalated to protestors resorting to blocking the R61 route, which links Port St Johns with Mthatha and other routes leading to towns like Lusikisiki.
“It is alleged that protestors managed to stop eight trucks travelling to different destinations and forced the drivers to jack-knife their trucks on the roads. It is further alleged that some of the protestors took keys away from the drivers,” said Nkohli.
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Nkholi further indicated allegations of protestors managing to stop eight trucks passing through Port St Johns and forced the drivers to jack-knife their trucks on the road. “It is further alleged that some of the protestors took keys away from the drivers,” said Nkohli.
“Attempts to remove the trucks were made but had failed. However, yesterday government towing
services were utilized to remove trucks from the roads. Owners of the affected truck companies are requested to avail spare keys for
their heavy-duty vehicles so as to expedite the process of the removal.”
Companies are requested to contact Colonel Mtengelwa
on 071 336 0017 to coordinate the handing-over of spare keys, Nkohli added.
“Police have opened a
case of contravention of the Road Traffic Act, with an additional charge of
intimidation. A team of detectives has also been assigned on the case so as to expedite
the investigation and the arrests.”
– ISSUED BY SAPS
