Africa-Press – South-Africa. A 33-year-old truck driver was lucky to survive after he was allegedly kidnapped near the Lebombo border post in Komatipoort on Thursday.
It’s alleged that the Eastern Cape-born man was queuing in Komatipoort with other truck drivers who were destined to cross over from South Africa through the Lebombo border post into Mozambique when he decided to leave his truck to get some food.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, as the man returned to his truck, a group of about four men armed with a firearm, pangas and knives forced him into some nearby bushes.
“Upon arrival in the bushes it is further alleged that his hands and feet were tied and he was allegedly assaulted by his assailants and sustained injuries to his head and other parts of his body,” said Mohlala.
The suspects allegedly used the truck driver’s phone to cash in from his bank account. They then ensured that the driver’s family transferred more cash for the sake of his freedom.
That same evening, the truck driver managed to escape and sought help from other truck drivers.
“A kidnapping case was opened at Komatipoort Police Station. There are no arrests yet,” said Mohlala.
Meanwhile, police dismissed rumours that another truck driver was kidnapped by suspects demanding R50 000 as ransom.
“Truck drivers are advised not to leave their trucks while waiting to be attended to by the officials working at Lebombo border post,” Mohlala added.
Anyone with information on the kidnapping can contact the crime stop hotline at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP”.
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