Trucks targeted at Kasumbalesa

News broke this morning of trucks being targeted by protesters at the Kasumbalesa border post between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mike Fitzmaurice, CEO of the Federation of East and Southern African Road Transport Associations (Fesarta), writes: “The locals (in the DRC) are protesting against local government, but are using the opportunity to attack and extort money out of the foreign drivers parked in the queue at the border post with threats of burning the driver in his truck.

“A lot of damage has been done to trucks and a lot of money extorted from drivers, as they carry United States dollars to pay for tolls and services in the DRC. The locals know this, which is why the trucks are being targeted.”

Fitzmaurice received the following correspondence sent this morning by one of the drivers at the scene:

[23/08, 09:31] Driver: We are in a queue at Kasumbalesa where the public are in conflict with police. Now they are running up and down in between trucks and stoning trucks.

[23/08, 09:31] Driver: After stoning they demanded money. They wanted to burn the truck and me inside. I gave them US$ 150.

[23/08, 09:49] Driver: It’s gun shots everywhere here in Kasumbalesa. Our safety is at stake as I write this message.

[23/08, 09:54] Driver: Soldiers are now in control over the entire border. They are busy arresting the main leaders and protesters.

[23/08, 09:54] Driver: Unfortunately a lot of damage to trucks and money extorted.

[23/08, 10:11] Driver: We are some distance from the border. When the patrol goes in another direction, thugs remain attacking drivers. They are even using catapults.

FOCUS will endeavour to keep readers updated as this story progresses. Keep an eye on our social media platforms for any more details we receive.