‘Economic sabotage’: Minister condemns torching of trucks
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says those behind the torching of trucks are committing an act of economic sabotage. This comes as at least 15 trucks have been torched in separate incidents in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Gauteng and Mpumalanga in less than seven days. TRANSPORT MINISTER WEIGHS IN ON TORCHING OF TRUCKS Chikunga said the incidents are […]
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says those behind the torching of trucks are committing an act of economic sabotage.
This comes as at least 15 trucks have been torched in separate incidents in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Gauteng and Mpumalanga in less than seven days.
TRANSPORT MINISTER WEIGHS IN ON TORCHING OF TRUCKS
Chikunga said the incidents are criminality that will not be tolerated as the country’s road network is the lifeblood of its economy and transports valuable cargo that keeps the wheels of the economy turning.
‘’The ability of trucks to transport freight is an enabler of economic activity and trade with other markets, which is critical for our economy, as the road freight transports in excess of 80% of all our cargo,” the minister said.
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The road traffic law enforcement authorities, working under the coordination of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) are reportedly working closely with other law enforcement authorities to maintain maximum vigilance and to bring perpetrators to book.
Government has also provided a platform of engagement for any party aggrieved by working conditions in the road freight industry and progress is being made in addressing the issues on the table. The Ministry continues to work as part of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to address the challenges facing the sector.
“’Behaviour by any party that is outside of that agreed framework will neither be condoned nor tolerated. We call upon law enforcement authorities to unleash the full might of the law in dealing with those who think they can sabotage our economy with impunity. We equally appeal to other road users and communities to work closely with law enforcement authorities and report suspicious conduct on our roads. We will not allow our roads to be used as an arena to commit crime”, concluded Minister Chikunga.
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