Motorists travelling along the R532 near Hlabekisa, close to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, have been urged to exercise extreme caution following a volatile protest that has led to a road closure in the area.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident began in the early hours of Friday morning, 27 March 2026, when officers from Dientjie, together with Public Order Police, responded to reports of a barricaded road.

Police spokesperson Mpho Nonyane-Mpe said upon arrival at the scene, officers found that more than 50 individuals had blocked the road using five trucks, as well as debris including burning tyres and corrugated roofing sheets.

“It is alleged that one of the truck drivers was attacked after stones were thrown at his vehicle, breaking the windows and forcing him to stop. The suspects then used his truck to barricade the road and drained the diesel,” she said.

Four additional trucks were reportedly stopped, with their keys confiscated and diesel siphoned. Some drivers were also allegedly assaulted during the incident.

Police further indicated that some motorists attempting to pass through the area were stopped and forced to pay money in order to proceed. Although a few vehicles have managed to bypass the blockade by using the roadside, authorities have warned that the situation remains dangerous.

Public Order Police from Hazyview have since been deployed to stabilise the situation, while law enforcement continues to monitor developments on the ground.

A case of public violence has been opened, and investigations are ongoing.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and to remain vigilant, as traffic flow continues to be severely affected.