EMPD Freeway Unit members monitoring and patrolling the N17 freeway with other deployed law enforcers from different services rescued a truck driver Thursday night after his vehicle caught fire.
Foul play is suspected.
According to EMPD spokesperson Kobeli Mokheseng, the incident took place just after 9pm before the Ergo off-ramp.
The driver, travelling in a white Volvo truck with two semi-trailers, was transporting beverages from Springs to Boksburg.
“The unscathed but shocked driver alleged that as the truck was in motion, there was a bang which felt like a thrown bottle from the nearby informal settlement known as Mkhankwa, before he saw flames from the left side of his truck,” said Mokheseng.
“As he stopped on the side of the roadway, reaching for his fire extinguisher, the SAPS and EMPD members, who alerted the nearby fire station, were already securing the area in prevention of the secondary incident or possible attack.”
Mokheseng explained there have been recent reports of protest action and stones being thrown at passing vehicles within the area.
“Even though the truck horse was burnt beyond recognition, the fire department responded promptly and the two semi-trailers containing valuable goods were intact,” he said.
“The torched truck was salvaged in the early hours of this morning (Friday) and for now the N17 freeway is accessible.
“Motorists are advised to exercise caution.”
Brakpan police have registered and are investigating a case of malicious damage to property.
“With other law-enforcement agencies, we will continue to patrol areas affected by protest action and random burning of trucks,” added Mokheseng.
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