A truck driver was assaulted and his truck set alight in what seemed to be strike-related violence on the East Rand on Tuesday.

Ekurhuleni metro police Inspector Mveli Nhlapo said the driver was flagged down by four men who acted as if they were hitching a ride near the Oakmoor railway station in Thembisa around 5.45pm.

"When he slowed down they stoned the vehicle and he lost control," said Nhlapo.

When the 22 metre long 18-wheeler truck came to a standstill, about 50 other men came from the bushes and assaulted the driver, said Nhlapo.

"We can't rule out that they were not from the march in Johannesburg, as one of them was wearing a Satawu t-shirt," said Nhlapo.

The driver was slightly injured and no one was arrested.