Brakpan SAPS warns motorists of rising hijackings on R23
Local police urge drivers to stay safe as hijackings spike on Heidelberg Road and surrounding routes.
Brakpan SAPS sector managers and Crime Prevention Wardens conducted an awareness campaign along the R23 (Heildeberg Road) on Wednesday aimed at alerting motorists and truck drivers, who travel the route regularly, about criminal activities taking place along this stretch of road.
According to Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and communications officer, there has been an alarming increase in truck hijackings on the R23, N17, R554 (Elsburg Road) and Airport Road.
“The main objective was to stop the trucks and alert drivers to take precautions and practice vigilance at all times while on the road,” she said.
“Motorists were also stopped and vehicles were searched. Truck and motor vehicle drivers were sensitised to never stop on the side of the road to relieve themselves or even to inspect any faults, but advised to rather find a petrol station or any other public or safe place to stop.
“The truck drivers were also requested to alert their colleagues to be vigilant on the roads.”
Buthelezi stated the campaign also hoped to convey a strong message to criminals pretending to be law enforcement officers with intentions to hijack road users. She added that police visibility has increased at the mentioned hotspots.
