Vehicles along the country\u2019s busiest roads have been targeted in spiking incidents, with criminals using rocks and other materials to damage cars and then stealing from drivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
City of Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Mgcini Tshwaku, said criminals deliberately place rocks on the N1 North between the Soweto Highway and Maraisburg Off-ramps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another hotspot for this criminal activity is the N1 South between Maraisburg and Rand Show Road Off-ramps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although spiking can happen at any time in the day, it most often occurs after dark because it helps with this type of crime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Criminals take advantage of the darkness to hide hazards from unsuspecting drivers until it\u2019s too late for them to brake or avoid the objects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Criminals aim to damage a vehicle, especially its tyres, which causes the driver to pull over, making them vulnerable to robbery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although thieves mainly use spikes made from wood or nails, they can also use other big objects, such as rocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We have directed the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to act decisively to root out these criminal elements,” said Tshwaku.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Joint operations are underway across our freeways and highways, ensuring no road user is vulnerable.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Department of Public Safety is aware of the alarming rise in road spike incidents across Johannesburg and is dealing with it decisively to ensure the safety of all motorists.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The city urged the community to report emergencies or suspicious activities by contacting 082 060 0057 or 011 375 5911.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spiking is not a new tactic, with numerous incidents reported in recent years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities of South Africa Sindisiwe Chikunga was a victim of spiking hijacking in late 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Gauteng Traffic Police previously identified the following roads as spiking hotspots:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hijacking tactics on the rise<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Spiking is one of the many tactics criminals use to target South African motorists and steal their belongings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For instance, 2024 saw the re-emergence of the \u2018tap-tap\u2019 hijacking tactic. In this method, criminals intentionally bump into a victim\u2019s car to create a staged accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Once the driver pulls over to assess the damage or exchange details, hijackers use the opportunity to strike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This trend is popular in urban areas, where congested roads allow criminals to exploit unsuspecting drivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Car theft and hijacking claims for high-value vehicles have also increased, especially keyless models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Criminals have increasingly turned to sophisticated car-jamming techniques which disable remote locking systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, there has been a rise in kidnappings during hijackings. Criminals hold the victim hostage to ensure that the tracking devices are revealed and delay the reporting of the crime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hijackers can thus remove or disable the devices before the vehicle is reported stolen, making recovery incredibly difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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