By Staff Reporter
BURGERSFORT – A collision between a truck and a train on the R555 between Burgersfort and Ohrigstad has led to the closure of the road at the railway crossing and sparked scenes of looting as community members descended on the site to help themselves to the truck’s cargo.
The incident occurred on Friday, August 1 morning, and although details remain limited, authorities have confirmed that the road has been temporarily closed to allow emergency services and clean-up teams to access the scene.
As of the time of publication, no injuries have been reported, and both truck and train operators are believed to be safe.
However, the truck’s cargo—contents of which have not yet been officially confirmed—was quickly targeted by opportunistic looters from nearby communities.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing dozens of people arriving on foot, carrying bags and containers, and helping themselves to the cargo scattered around the crash site.
Videos and photos circulating on social media show crowds rushing to grab goods while law enforcement struggled to contain the situation.
Police have since been deployed to the scene to restore order, and a statement from local authorities is expected later today.
Motorists are advised to avoid the R555 and use alternative routes while clean-up and investigations are underway.
Officials are also calling on the public to refrain from looting or interfering with accident scenes, warning that such actions are illegal and may result in arrest.
The cause of the collision is still under investigation.
