BEWARE: N12 ‘spikings’ on the raise
Keep the wheels turning despite damage to you vehicle’s tyres, urge the Benoni CPF.
The Benoni CPF urges motorists travelling on the N12 between Atlas and Kingsway roads to remain vigilant as road ‘spikings’ are on the increase.
CPF spokesperson Stephan Lombard said reports indicate a sharp rise in these incidents and the area is deemed a criminal hotspot.
“Spikings refer to criminals placing sharp objects, which can take on various forms, on the road,” he explained.
“For example, nails are driven through short planks and pieces of hosepipe with the sole intention of causing damage to tyres. Criminals hide next to the road, waiting for unsuspecting motorists to fall victim to their traps.
“Once a motorist brings their vehicle to a stop to inspect the damage or to summon assistance from roadside support services, criminals pounce often robbing motorists at gunpoint.”
Lombard says that highway robberies have grown more violent and cautions that the area near Snake Road has seen the most incidents of this nature.
“We urge motorists, especially those travelling at night or in the early hours of the morning, to remain vigilant at all times,” he said.
“As a precaution, we advise reducing speed, thus making it easier to spot potential hazards as well as being able to safely avoid these.”
What to do in the event of spiking:
• Reduce your speed. Do not brake as this may cause your vehicle to swerve resulting in loss of control.
• Do not stop where the incident occurred. Continue driving until you reach a safe place, such as a petrol station. While this will cause damage to your alloy rims, these can be fixed – a loss of life cannot.
• Immediately notify authorities of the location of the incident.
• In case of emergency call 112 from a cellphone or 10111 (SAPS).
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