DriveMoz
Linda Angus Uys · 11 Min. ·
NKOMAZI VEHICLE SPIKING INCIDENTS
After an increase in incidents where motorists have been targeted by robbers through the placing of spikes between Impala and Coopersdal on the N4 has it in become important for our clients who use this road on a frequent basis to be informed of what to expect and to have direct contact with Securicon by means of this N4 DRIVE SAFE GROUP in a case where they need assistance !
They aim is to reduce the risk of our clients and road users in general of becoming victims of this type of crime.
WHAT IS VEHICLE SPIKING
Spikes or other objects are placed on the road to cause damage to vehicles forcing affected motorists to stop. When the vehicle comes to a standstill, criminals rob and assault drivers and passengers.
VEHICLE SPIKING FACTS
• Spiking incidents are predominantly taking place at night!
• Spiking incidents are erratic, and different techniques are used, including throwing objects/spikes in front of vehicles.
THE GENERAL MODUS OPERANDI SPIKERS USE :
“When the vehicle is approximately 400-500 meters away, criminals throw the spikes in the road.
“Criminals also place the spikes in black plastic bags or cardboard boxes, and it is therefore not easy to recognize immediately.”
criminals also use concrete lintels and place them right across the road.
“It is almost impossible for the driver to see this as it is too far away and too dark.”
There are usually two groups involved in this crime.
“The spiking group and the stopper group who are usually the robbers.
The second group waits for about 50 – 150m away from the place where the spiking takes place and approach the vehicle when it comes to a standstill .
TIPS OF STAYING SAFE :
It is strongly suggested that motorists avoid driving alone at night.
“Ensure that your cellphone is charged to its maximum and if possible, share your live location with a family member or friend.”
Securicon Clients who travel late at night can also use the Whatsup group to report on leaving and destination times or use the phone in facility to report on your trip . Using this we will be able to monitor whether you have reached your destination safely !
Motorists should avoid roads that are secluded and not lit as well as highways in and around the city at night.
“Travel at a reasonable speed – that will allow you to swerve out of the way and avoid the spikes.”
motorists are urged to stay calm should it happen that you do drive over spikes. Contact our emergency numbers as soon as possible and “ share your location “
“Stay calm and do not stop. Continue driving but reduce speed if need be. Do not panic if you hear the metal of your car’s rims or even see sparks.”
REMEMBER it is less dangerous to proceed at 40km/hour than it is to stop.
“Further down the road, you might be able to stop safely at a tollgate, garage or farm entrance where you will be able to make an emergency call or ask for help.”
The next tip is to avoid driving at night or using hotspot routes. It is noted that these road spike incidents tend to happen in crime hot spots and during the night .
Of course there are times when driving at night is unavoidable and that's why we suggest to plan your trip and make contact with our Control Room .
As much as many drivers would think that it would be safer to drive faster, it is quite the opposite actually. By keeping the speed limit, you can spot potential hazards and be more prepared on how to respond accordingly.
AGAIN If your car has been damaged in some way, with spikes or something else, DONT STOP !
And make sure to have your emergency numbers and that of SECURICON saved on your mobile, also if you have an insurance provider that offers road side assistance then make sure their numbers are safely stored on your speed dial.
▪️Travel in clusters and stay close to your convoy
• In the event that your vehicle is spiked, slow down to a safe speed and attempt to drive as far away as possible from the crime scene
• If possible, stop at a safe, well-lit place – like a police station or service station.
WHERE ARE THE HOTSPOTS ?
The police highlighted the following areas where vehicle spiking incidents occur, including but not limited to the N4 only:
▪️ N4 Impala to Coopersdal
▪️The N4 Mpumalanga to Pretoria between Solomon Mahlangu and Watermeyer Offramp.
▪️The N4 Pretoria to Mpumalanga between Bronkhorstspruit and Balmoral off-ramp.
▪️The N1 Polokwane N4 Mpumalanga interchange in Pretoria.
The N4 to Rustenburg between R80 Mabopane Freeway and Brits plaza tollgate.
▪️Golden Highway.
▪️R21 Freeway from OR Tambo International Airport to Pretoria.
▪️Middelburg on the N4, Bethal, ▪️Kendall, Phola/Ogies on the N12 near the Arbor off-ramp,
▪️Delmas still on the N12 as well as from Bronkhorstspruit towards Witbank on the N4.
▪️Witbank on Dellville Street, Verena Road, R555/Old Ogies Road,
▪️the Calcutta area,
▪️the R40 around the Marite area, Belfast on the N4 next to Wonderfontein,
▪️and Acornhoek in the Matsikitsane area.
If you have been affected by this type of crime or see any suspicious-looking activity, call the Securicon 24 Hour Control Room and local SAPS
0861 111 728
082 567 2350
SECURICON
Gruß Gina
