Two cyclists were the victims of a mugging in the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens near Marks Park.
The incident, which happened in the early morning of 10 January, occurred when the cyclists were accosted by two men, one of whom had a knife.
According to Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, spokesperson for the Parkview Police Station, the victim and his friend attempted to get away but one suspect grabbed him and held a knife to his neck and demanded his cellphone.
Sibeko added that attackers robbed the victim of an iPhone valued at R16 000. The cyclists didn’t sustain any injuries.
However, social media reports have contradicted this statement as posts on Facebook have suggested that the men sustained stab wounds.
The Rosebank Killarney Gazette has been unable to contact the cyclists. Comment will be added as soon as it becomes available.
While jogging provides the perfect opportunity to keep fit while enjoying the outdoors, it is important for runners to keep safety top-of-mind.
Leave a message
Before heading out for a jog, make sure that there is always someone who knows where you are going. We live in a digitally connected world that has made it easy to inform someone of your whereabouts, so let your family, a friend or even your next-door neighbour know that you have stepped out for a jog. Also, give them details of your planned route.
Avoid wearing earphones
Most joggers prefer to play their favourite tunes, to keep them motivated while they jog. This could, however, have dangerous consequences. How can you hear everything around you if the music is being played at full blast through your headsets?
If you cannot run without headphones, lower the volume and keep it at a level that still allows you to hear what is going on around you. You can also wear your earphones in one ear so that you can identify any alerts.
Safety in numbers
Joggers or cyclists who are alone in a park alone may make an easy target. If possible, make sure you visit the park with a group of people as this may dissuade a would-be attacker.
Try different routes
Running the same route repeatedly may allow potential attackers to track your movements. If you use a different route when you run or cycle it may be more difficult for someone to ambush you.
Keep valuables hidden
While it is advisable to keep your cellphone on you while you are running, in case there is an emergency, keep it hidden. If you usually wear jewellery, rather take it off at home as this may be tempting to thieves.
Do you feel safe when visiting the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens? Share your thoughts with us on the Rosebank Killarney Gazette Facebook page or email laurap@caxton.co.za
