Women motorists have raised concerns about alleged harassment and intimidation by a man begging at the intersection of Main Road and Witkoppen Road, prompting the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) to promise increased patrols and firm action.

In an email to the Fourways Review, motorist Sam Wright described how the man allegedly blocked her vehicle at the traffic light before banging on its side. Wright said the man had, over several months, allegedly banged on vehicle bonnets and windows, attempted to strike side mirrors and spat on vehicles. “He specifically targets women drivers,” she said.

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Wright said several women had shared similar experiences in community groups, with many expressing fear about encountering the man at the intersection.

She questioned what recourse motorists had when no permanent damage was caused to their vehicles and said she was considering buying a dashcam rather than taking out her phone to record incidents at the intersection. “I can’t avoid the intersection but I’m tired of being scared to drive there,” she said.
Wright also offered to rally women to report the incidents to the South African Police Service (SAPS), saying she wanted to help make the intersection safer.

Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy subsequently appealed to Johannesburg Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety Mgcini Koma to intervene, describing the matter as one of grave importance.

Reddy said he had received accounts from several residents, both men and women, who alleged that the individual had accosted them when they refused to give him money.

He said the man had previously been removed from intersections at Witkoppen and Rivonia roads, Achter Road and Cambridge Road following similar complaints.

While acknowledging that the individual might be unwell, Reddy called for permanent care to prevent further incidents. “It is our responsibility to protect women from gender-based violence and to remove individuals like these, remove perceived threats and help make our roads safer for women and all motorists.”

In a media statement issued on October 2, the JMPD said it had noted, with serious concern, a video circulating on social media about the alleged harassment and aggressive behaviour at the intersection.
JMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca has directed officers to implement immediate measures, including increased patrols and monitoring of the intersection and surrounding hotspots.

The department said officers would remove individuals found violating municipal road and traffic by-laws, obstructing traffic or engaging in intimidation and criminal behaviour.

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The JMPD said it was also working with the department of social development to provide appropriate interventions, shelter assessments and support services for displaced individuals.

It warned that anyone found violating the law or intimidating members of the public would be arrested and handed over to SAPS for criminal prosecution.

Motorists and victims of intimidation are urged to report incidents to the JMPD Emergency Contact Centre on 011 375 5911 or at their nearest SAPS station.

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