The Benoni police are warning drivers to be vigilant when driving on the Snake Road ramps towards the N12 down to Rangeview Road in Mackenzie Park.
This warning follows recent robberies.
On March 26, a man driving a Toyota Hilux was robbed of his valuables on the Snake Road off-ramp at around 3pm.
Benoni SAPS spokesperson Capt Nomsa Sekele said the man’s vehicle broke down and he got out to check what the problem was.
“He was then approached by three men armed with knives. Two of the men grabbed him and threatened him to stab him while the other man took two cellphones and a jacket from the vehicle,” said Sekele.
The robbers then ran away.
A case of robbery was opened at the Benoni SAPS.
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In another incident, on March 3, a man driving a white Ford Figo was robbed while stationary at the traffic light on Snake Road at around 5.50pm.
“His passenger window was smashed and a man grabbed his cellphone and ran off,” said Sekele.
A smash-and-grab case was opened at the station.
The spokesperson urges motorists to be vigilant at all times and avoid leaving valuables on sight.
“When your vehicle breaks down, try to get help as quickly as possible and be vigilant while you wait,” she said.
Police will be patrolling the area.
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Police shared some tips that could save motorists from becoming victims:
• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Be on the lookout for signs of smash-and-grab hot spots: evidence of broken glass on the side of the road could be a sign of smash and grabs having occurred there.
• Check blind spots when alone an at intersection: attacks from blind spots have become predominantly used in hijackings as motorists often only refer to their mirrors for visibility, but don’t check their blind spots.
• In the event of a smash and grab, remain calm and let the thieves take the valuables as they may be armed, and go to a safe area and call 10111.
• Report the crime immediately. It is important to report the crime to the police as quickly as possible as this may help in identifying the culprit/s should they return to the scene of the crime.
• Boot it or lose it: police advise all motorists to always put their valuables in the boot of the car.
• Motorists should hoot as many times as possible to attract attention when they sense they are being targeted or, if possible, drive away.
