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GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - A video showing a physical altercation between members of two tow truck companies at the scene of a crash on Kaaimans Pass on Sunday 2 November, has gone viral for all the wrong reasons.
In the footage, two men can be seen throwing punches while emergency personnel attended to the accident.
Long-standing tensions between local towing companies have often led to disputes over recovery jobs. The rivalry between services in the area is nothing new, with claims of professional jealousy and alleged pay-offs continuing to fuel friction. It also doesn't seem as if there is a solution to the problem at this stage.
Following the incident, the organisation Live Traffic NPC issued a message to all tow truck companies, reminding them of their vital role at crash scenes.
The statement condemned reckless behaviour such as racing to accident sites and fighting over towing rights, calling it “unacceptable” and damaging to public trust.
“Fighting at crash scenes, disregarding law enforcement, and prioritising towing over the well-being of the injured is eroding public trust,” the message read.
“Your focus must return to dignity, professionalism, and prioritising lives over profit. The public and insurance companies are watching, and continued misconduct risks customers requesting alternative services.”
George Herald has contacted both towing companies involved. Comment has been received from Star Truck Towing and Repairs to state their side of the story, and a response from the other company is still awaited.
WATCH: The two tow truck drivers tackle each other near the crash scene in Kaaimans.
Read the full story in Thursday’s George Herald and online.
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