Inside Krugersdorp’s illegal street racing circuit
The culture of illegal street racing in Krugersdorp has come to light, however, Public Safety is warning those taking part to tread lightly.
Have you ever heard loud exhaust popping noises that sound like a gunshot, or tyres squalling on the asphalt at the most random of times? Despite it being illegal, street racing events in Krugersdorp are becoming the latest thrill for petrolheads.
An anonymous person approached the Krugersdorp News to learn more about these illegal activities and invited the News to gain insight into these races.
The informant requested to remain anonymous due to the criminality of street racing and knew a party involved in these races.
The informant provided crucial details to explain the conduct of these races. Race organisers choose 300–400-metre long roads for drag races, as they are almost a full quarter mile long, aiming for fun and an adrenaline rush.
“Any type of street race in the Gauteng area is just too far away so we decided to make a WhatsApp group to connect people who want to see how their cars perform,” he added.
He mentioned they select quiet roads, especially on weekends, away from suburban areas, and have someone scout the road ahead to ensure no other cars are present.
“How safe these races are is down to the driver and the wearing of seatbelts but no helmets. Fortunately, we have never had a wipeout but have had a couple of breakdowns,” the informant said.
He continued to say that they build their cars up to be able to perform against one another but as upgrades are expensive, it is mostly a money game.
“It is usually the same crowd doing this for years and who attends. The most we have ever had was around 50 cars,” he said.
The News attended one of the races recently where friends and even families gathered to see who could outperform who.
There were numerous swooped-up cars with extensive upgrades. One of the racers even poured cold water on the intercooler to cool it down.
“This increases the car’s performance when it is cooled down,” the informant said.
But those participating be warned, Mogale City Public Safety is hot on your trail.
The News reached out to Public Safety Assistant Manager Jimmy Keet, who said these races are most definitely illegal. He then referenced Section 317(2) of the National Road Traffic Act, Act 93 of 1996 which states that residents may not engage in or organise an illegal street race, and the only legal way is to get written consent of the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) of the concerned province.
“Every Sunday, we visit the streets where these races usually take place. We will not stop until these dragsters are out of our town. Let it be known that offenders will be locked up and the magistrate will decide your fate,” Keet concluded.
