Gauteng Traffic Police
By Mpho Moloi
Gauteng traffic police have warned motorists about a rise in vehicle spiking incidents on freeways in the province.
This follows Friday night’s attack near Hammanskraal, where three people travelling in a minibus taxi were robbed and shot. 
Authorities reported that two passengers died at the scene, while a third survived and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Provincial Traffic Police spokesperson Obed Sibasa stated, “A minibus taxi transporting passengers from Gauteng heading to Limpopo was spiked on the N1 North between Carousel Plaza and Maubane. According to eyewitnesses, armed suspects robbed passengers of their belongings and shot three passengers. Two died at the scene, while a third victim was transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. In another case, a motorist was spiked and robbed on the N4 near R512.” 
Increase in Vehicle Spiking Incidents
The province has seen a significant rise in vehicle spiking incidents, with criminals placing spikes or other objects on roads to force motorists to stop, subsequently robbing them of their belongings. In recent weeks, approximately 40 suspects have been arrested in connection with these incidents. 
Identified Hotspots
Motorists are urged to exercise caution, especially when travelling at night, and to be aware of the following hotspot areas in Gauteng:
• N4 Mpumalanga to Pretoria between Solomon Mahlangu and Watermeyer off-ramps
• N4 Pretoria to Mpumalanga between Bronkhorstspruit and Balmoral off-ramps
• N1 Polokwane N4 Mpumalanga interchange in Pretoria
• N4 to Rustenburg between R80 Mabopane Freeway and Brits Plaza tollgate
• Golden Highway
• R21 Freeway from OR Tambo International Airport to Pretoria
• R562 in Olifantsfontein
• N12 in Witbank, under the Merridale bridge
• N12 between Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom
• N3 between Leondale and Barry Marais Road
• N17 between Rondebult and Heidelberg Road
Safety Measures for Motorists
To mitigate the risk of falling victim to these spiking incidents, motorists are advised to:
• Avoid travelling at night if possible.
• Remain vigilant and reduce speed to improve visibility of the road ahead.
• Not stop immediately if they hit an object; instead, continue driving slowly to the nearest safe location, such as a petrol station or police station.
• Keep vehicle doors locked at all times.
• Not allow any unauthorised individuals to tow their vehicle without written permission.
Law Enforcement Response
In response to the increasing incidents, law enforcement agencies have intensified patrols in identified hotspot areas. The Gauteng Traffic Police have established a task team of detectives working on cases related to spiking, leading to the arrest of approximately 40 suspects. These cases are currently proceeding through the court system. 
Community Involvement
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the authorities. Community vigilance plays a crucial role in assisting law enforcement agencies to combat these crimes effectively.
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