Motorists urged to stay alert after latest N4 spiking incident

Motorists are being urged to stay vigilant following yet another spiking incident on a major Gauteng road.

Less than five weeks ago, a Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) employee narrowly escaped injury when objects were placed on an N14 on-ramp to Krugersdorp, underscoring the ongoing danger posed by these opportunistic crimes.

The latest incident occurred on the N4 Eastbound between Silver Lakes and Donkerhoek, where rocks were deliberately placed on the road, causing several vehicles to suffer flat tyres.

Despite ongoing awareness campaigns by police, other law enforcement agencies and organisations such as MISA, spiking incidents remain prevalent on Gauteng’s national roads.

Experts say these attacks are often carried out by criminals targeting isolated motorists at night. Sharp objects or spikes are placed on the roadway to disable vehicles, forcing drivers to stop, after which attackers strike to steal valuables before fleeing.

Martlé Keyter, MISA’s CEO for operations, expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents.

“Spiking incidents place workers and their loved ones at risk when they travel. Many employees in our industry must adjust their working hours to meet customer demands, making them particularly vulnerable. It is unacceptable that people’s lives are endangered while trying to earn a living,” she said.

While MISA has commended law enforcement for increased visibility on the roads under Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, the union – representing 75 000 members – has called for further measures to improve safety at known hotspot areas at night.

MISA has also warned against a rise in false spiking claims submitted to insurance companies.

Keyter emphasised that such behaviour wastes resources that should assist genuine victims, and urged motorists to act honestly when reporting incidents.