SAPS Heidelberg are investigating a case of attempted murder, following an incident which occurred on the N3 freeway on the northern side of Heidelberg on July 8.
According to Brigadier Pule Phillip Mokoena (Sedibeng acting district commissioner) the driver of a Volvo truck was on route from Johannesburg to Durban, when the driver of a Toyota Corolla Quest came up from behind and indicated his intention to pass the truck.
“The next moment however, shots were being fired from the passenger side of the vehicle towards the truck. Fearing for his life, the truck driver alerted the company’s control office before he brought the truck to a stop and jumped out to seek safety in hiding in the bushes next to the road,” Brig Mokoena said.
The Police were also notified and immediately responded to the incident. On arrival, they found the stationary truck with several bullet holes to the side, but no trace of the suspects.
In another separate incident, police again responded to a shooting on the N3. According to Brig Mokoena, the truck driver was also travelling from Johannesburg to Durban, when he came under fire.
As a result, police have issued a stern warning to hauling/transport companies and truck drivers to be more vigilant while driving along N3 freeway.
“Truck drivers should be more observant and if and when they encounter a suspect vehicle behind them, it should immediately be reported to the police. SAPS will deploy a highly qualified team for assistance,” Brig Mokoena said.
He added that police visibility on all national, provincial and secondary roads within the Sedibeng district policing area, will now be increased.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the suspects involved in the two shooting incidents, are urged to come forward. Information can be provided to the police anonymously by phoning SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App or by sending a sms to Crime Line on 32211.
