Authorities have urged motorists to stay safe this coming long weekend, when the number of vehicles is expected to rise drastically on the two main roads through our area, the N12 and the N14.
In a kick-off to the coming long weekend, various authorities joined forces at a big roadblock at the four-way crossing of the N12 and the R500 on March 31.
The Fochville Station Commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Levy Molepo, commenced the action, which included members of the police in Fochville, the Fochville Community Policing Forum (CPF), Emergency Medical Services as well as traffic officers from the Merafong City Local Municipality and Gauteng province. The group searched a total of 617 vehicles and 1 681 people, and took six vehicles off the road. One suspect was also arrested for possessing gold-bearing material. The officers also issued 38 traffic fines to the value of R40 600.
Meanwhile, several fatal accidents have already occurred on the N12 this week. In one incident, one person was killed when three vehicles, a truck and two bakkies, collided near Mponeng Gold Mine.
As far as could be determined, both bakkies belong to a security company. The accident occurred during heavy rain.
Fidelity has also issued some tips to keep vehicles safe over the coming Easter. The company notes that hijacking patterns tend to follow a cyclical trend, with lower activity early in the year, followed by a gradual increase from March into April. This rise aligns with increased travel and economic activity, making periods such as Easter especially important for customers to remain vigilant and prepared.
Because of this, they warn that vehicle owners must stay aware of their surroundings in parking areas and busy locations, avoid leaving valuables visible inside their vehicle, be mindful of keyless entry devices and where they are kept, and report any suspicious activity as soon as possible.