EMPD takes action against bad practice
Individuals who have been tormenting and intimidating motorists near the N17 Springs off-ramp, have found themselves on the wrong side of the law.
The EMPD has taken action since motorists have been complaining about a dangerous and unlawful practice that has been going on for some time now.
It was brought to the attention of the Herald that motorist who take the N17 Springs off-ramp, after the toll plaza towards the R23 Heidelberg Road (near Carnival City), are regularly greeted by individuals who, if you offer them money, will step into the oncoming traffic on the R23 (Heidelberg Road) to allow these motorist to cross the road and proceed towards Benoni.
“During the normal course, motorists obey the road law and will allow other road-users to cross the road and proceed with their journey,” said a motorist who asked not to be named.
”However, these individuals break the law, resulting in them placing their lives and the lives of other road-users at risk.
“Motorists who travel along this piece of road on a regular basis are familiar with the illegal practice taking place and drive slowly, however many times a motorist who is unaware of the individuals is caught by surprise and could cause an accident.”
The Herald brought the situation to the attention of the EMPD, who investigated and took action.
The spokesperson for the EMPD, Wilfred Kgasago, said the precinct commander has been monitoring the intersection for a couple of weeks.
“Officers were deployed to conduct point duty during peak hours and to periodically monitor the location,” he added.
“Whenever the culprits see the patrol vehicles approaching they run towards the N17 freeway.
“On Monday, August 3, at 4pm, the Director Operations in the region sighted the culprits. The precinct commander and one of his officers pounced on the two males and arrested them.”
“The two suspects made an attempt to escape while they were kept in the patrol car, but were immediately re-arrested,” said Kgasago
Charges of traffic endangerment and escaping from lawful custody were laid against the pair at the Brakpan Police Station, and they were due to appear in court.
