The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is deeply concerned by the flare up of these attacks over the past few days.  These acts threaten the lives and jobs of these truck drivers and other members of COSATU’s Affiliate, the South African Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (SATAWU).  An economy that is already fragile and battling to reduce a 42.6% unemployment rate cannot afford such optics.

Government needs to act swiftly and firmly.  Whilst some instances may be random acts of criminals, they appear to involve criminal syndicates.  This is not the first time that the nation has been threatened by such acts of violence and extortion.  We are witnessing a similar phenomenon in the construction sector.

The law enforcement organs need to deal with such national security threats.  We cannot afford to limp from one crisis to another when workers are already battling to survive and take care of their families.

Government needs to reverse the reckless budget cuts to our law enforcement organs, as well as the massive brain drain in the South African Police Service and ensure that all critical vacancies in the National Prosecuting Authority are filled, the court backlogs are addressed and that such cases are prioritised.

Issued by COSATU

For further information please contact:

Matthew Parks
Acting National Spokesperson & Parliamentary Coordinator
Cell: 082 785 0687