A resurgence of criminal activity involving the placement of spikes and other objects on Gauteng highways has raised concerns among motorists.
These deliberate obstructions are aimed at forcing drivers to stop and attend to their vehicles, only to fall victim to attacks and robberies.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) has issued a warning, urging heightened vigilance from motorists.
The incidents, often occurring on weekends and during nighttime, have been concentrated in specific areas, including:
– N12 under the Merridale bridge in Witbank
– R562, Olifantsfontein
– R21, between OR Tambo International Airport
– N3, Leondale and Barry Marais
– N17, between Rondebult and Heidelberg Road
In response, the EMPD, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, is enhancing police presence in these hotspots.
The department advises drivers to resist stopping when encountering spikes or experiencing tyre punctures, especially at night.
Instead, they should proceed slowly to the nearest garage or police station.
Read | Man shot dead, wife injured after stopping for a flat tyre on N4 near Brits
The EMPD has also shared advice from Gauteng traffic police spokesperson, Sello Moremane, on how to handle spiked vehicles:
– Avoid stopping if your vehicle suffers a puncture; drive cautiously to the nearest garage while contacting Gauteng Traffic Police.
– If stopped by a traffic officer, request to see their appointment certificate to verify their authenticity. If they fail to produce one, note down the patrol vehicle’s registration number and report it to the nearest police station.
– In case of a breakdown, stay inside the locked vehicle while seeking assistance. Don’t allow unauthorized towing.
– If you come across a spiked vehicle, consider stopping to offer assistance to the affected motorist.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution and remain alert while traveling through these areas.
The EMPD emphasizes that those caught endangering others by placing obstructions on roadways will face legal consequences.
