A group of protesters looted trucks on Robert Sobukwe road in Cape Town on Monday morning, allegedly stealing food parcels.

It is not immediately clear what the reason for the initial protest was, but shortly before lunchtime on Monday 20 April, a large group gathered on the side of the road near the N2 and things took a violent turn, with a truck stoned and brought to a halt.

Video’s circulating on social media show trucks being raided and protesters walking away with a variety of hampers. The trucks were allegedly stoned before coming to a halt, with protesters clambering to get their hands on the goods stored within.

Watch: looters raid stoned truck on Robert Sobukwe Drive, Cape Town:

Food parcels being looted: Robert Sobukwe Drive near the N2 Cale Town. The truck was also stoned. pic.twitter.com/PnNeIImwHS — Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) April 20, 2020

Four suspects arrested

Police spokesperson Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana said that a case had been opened against multiple offenders.

“Cases of Malicious damage to property have been opened for investigation after unknown people places barricade on the road in Robert Sobukwe drive,” she said.

She said that the truck drivers sustained injuries during the attack and were taken to hospital. She added that four suspects had been arrested following the incident.

“According to information drivers aged 32 and 46 sustained injuries as the trucks were pelted with stones, one was transported to a medical facility while the other was treated on the scene.”

“Police followed up on information and it led to the arrest of four suspects, two aged 27 and 28, female and male for Public Violence and two men aged 24 and 30 were arrested in Netreg in possession of presumed stolen property.”

Food parcel delivery off to a false start

The for parcel distribution has had a shaky start to say the least, with allegations of corruption and profiteering emerging in almost every province where feeding schemes are being rolled out.

As the nationwide lockdown continues into day 24, more and more people are beginning to feel the pinch and are finding it impossible to feed feed their families.

However, one of the undesirable consequences of the lockdown has been the criminal looting of stores and trucks amid a desperate plea for government subsidised food parcels to be delivered without interference.

Several ANC councillors have seen their memberships revoked amid accusations of corruption regarding the food packages.

Robert Sobukwe drive remains closed at Kasslesvlei road, with the South African Police service on scene.