Traffic on the R40 between Dwarsloop and Acornhoek in Mpumalanga has come to a standstill due to a protest by local community members.

The protesters have allegedly blockaded the road, demanding jobs from a foreign-owned truck company operating in the area.

The protest follows earlier complaints that the company’s trucks were damaging local roads.

Residents reportedly demanded compensation, and now claim that their calls for employment are being ignored.

Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi, confirmed that trucks were used to block the road.

Mmusi says, “The protesters used the trucks to blockade the road after forcing out the drivers out of the vehicles. Motorists travelling on the same road are advised to approach the area with caution and also use alternative routes wherever possible. The police, working closely with traffic law enforcement, are monitoring the situation. Efforts are being made to urgently open the road.”