Malcolm Libera – Alarming criminal tactic makes a comeback in South Africa

[Nat Quinn]

Alarming criminal tactic makes a comeback in South Africa

The resurgence of road spikes targeting motorists in South Africa has raised serious concerns, particularly as incidents escalate at the end of 2024 and into early 2025.

The Automobile Association (AA) and road safety experts are sounding the alarm over this dangerous crime trend, which primarily affects drivers in Gauteng but has also been reported in other provinces.

Criminals employ spikes to puncture vehicle tyres, forcing drivers to stop and rendering them vulnerable to robbery, assault, or hijacking.

Eleanor Mavimbela, spokesperson for the AA, explains that these incidents often occur in low-visibility areas, such as under bridges or on poorly lit roads, particularly at night.

Social media has been inundated with reports of motorists falling victim to this tactic, highlighting its growing prevalence.

Criminals work in pairs or small groups, strategically placing spikes to deflate tyres and then exploiting the immobilised vehicle.

In response, the AA strongly advises motorists to avoid travelling at night, stay vigilant in high-risk areas, and refrain from stopping immediately if their tyres are spiked. Instead, drivers should maintain a reduced speed and continue to a safer location before stopping to assess the damage and seek help.

The criminals’ modus operandi has evolved as motorists become more cautious. Initially, spikes were concealed on roads, and criminals would wait in nearby bushes for vehicles to hit them and stop.

However, as drivers learned to avoid stopping, perpetrators began adapting their tactics.

Now, some criminals use their own vehicles, often stolen, to follow targeted motorists until they’re forced to pull over.

Others lay clothing or objects over spikes to deceive drivers into believing a person is on the road.

The situation has also become increasingly violent, with reports of victims being assaulted, raped, or even forced to withdraw cash from ATMs after being robbed.

To mitigate the risk, the AA emphasises the importance of adhering to speed limits, maintaining a safe following distance, and informing someone of your travel plans, especially when driving through unfamiliar areas.

While run-flat tyres offer some protection, even standard tyres can last longer than expected if the driver keeps moving at a reduced speed, potentially allowing them to reach a safer location.

The Motor Industry Staff Association’s (MISA) Sonja Carstens warns that criminals’ willingness to escalate their aggression underscores the importance of vigilance.

She notes that while increased police visibility in some areas has helped, incidents remain alarmingly common. Specific hotspot routes have been identified, including:

• The N4 freeway between Donkerhoek and Bronkhorstspruit.

• The R104.

• The N1 between Midrand and the Soweto turnoff.

• The R80 Mabopane Freeway in Pretoria.

On the N4, criminals have reportedly thrown rocks onto the road to force drivers to stop, while similar incidents involving spikes and other debris have occurred on other major routes.

Even in areas where police patrols have increased, such as parts of Johannesburg, attacks continue to pose a serious threat. Just last week, rocks damaged vehicles on the N1 and N7 near the city.

Journalist and activist Yusuf Abramjee has been vocal about the need for coordinated efforts to combat this crime.

Private security companies and community police forums are working alongside law enforcement to clear roads and improve safety in known hotspots.

While these efforts are commendable, Abramjee stresses the importance of maintaining personal vigilance and staying informed about high-risk areas.

Motorists should remain cautious and prepared to respond to potential encounters with road-spiking criminals.

The alarming increase in road-spiking incidents is a stark reminder of the challenges South African motorists face daily.

While authorities and community groups continue to address the issue, drivers must prioritize their safety by avoiding risky situations and following expert advice.

 

source:Alarming criminal tactic makes a comeback in South Africa – BusinessTech

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