‘No link’ between truck torchings, July unrest - Cele
Police Minister Bheki Cele says there is no evidence to indicate that the recent torching of trucks is linked to the July 2021 unrest.
"As things stand, there is no evidence before us to suggest that the recent target on trucks is in any way related or linked to the July insurrection. I wish to take this opportunity to allay any fears that what transpired in July 2021 will repeat itself."
Since the early hours of Sunday, at least 21 heavy-duty vehicles have been set alight on various national routes.
In almost all incidents, armed gangs forced the drivers out of their trucks before setting the vehicles and their cargo ablaze.
The latest attack happened this morning on the N2 between Piet Retief and Ermelo in Mpumalanga and involved four trucks.
During a briefing on Wednesday, Cele said intelligence suggested the arson may be business related.
"Intelligence suggests that attacks on trucks may be business related, and we know that these are not just random acts of criminality.
"Evidence before us points to organised, coordinated and sophisticated operations that seek to undermine and sabotage the state."
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