The hidden art of hitch-hiking

Motorists are also alerted to not pick up any hikers as they also fall victims to robbery and carjacking

Hitch-hikers on the side of the old Ogies road.

Hitch-hiking has become a norm for some residents in eMalahleni.

People would rather stand for hours waiting for a car than pay taxi fare to get to their destination.

In recent reports, residents have been complaining about losing their valuables when they hitch-hike. Several robbery cases were filed at Witbank Police Station regarding the robberies that occur on public roads where they hitch-hike.

In some incidents, the robbers are armed with guns or other dangerous weapons; they are said to approach victims and rob them of their cell phones, bags and cash.

Motorists are also alerted to not pick up any hikers as they also fall victims to robbery and carjacking. Robbers may pretend to be normal hitch-hikers but later rob the motorists.

School children who hitch-hike at the Witbank Central Business District (CBD) may also find themselves affected by these crimes.

Brigadier Sifiso Cele, Station Commander of Witbank SAPS requested the community not to hitch-hike on any public roads as they are vulnerable to criminal activities.