Several incidents of spiking incidents as well as rocks being placed on highways have authorities warning motorists in eMalahleni, Kempton Park and Pretoria to remain vigilant and be on the lookout for obstacles when driving.

The Middelburg Observer reports that in eMalahleni, Annemarie Bouwer, SACCW Ops Co-ordinator for the Zello Channel said four incidents were reported on the N12 and N4 last night. The incidents happened between 23:50 and 03:45.

On the N4, a man driving a VW Amarok was forced to a halt after spikes damaged his tyres. He was forced into the bushes by his attackers where he was robbed of his cellphone, laptop, wallet and wedding ring.

The man was later found by police, who allowed him to make a phone call to his wife.

At 03:45 three other vehicles also suffered damage to their tyres after driving over rocks that had been packed across the N12. The vehicles, however, managed to make it to safety without being robbed.

Ekurhuleni metro issues warning after 12 vehicles damaged

The Kempton Express reports that the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department said that at least 12 vehicles were damaged recently after hitting spikes on the N12 eastbound, near the Edenvale off-ramp.

The following roads were identified as hotspots:

• R562(Olifantsfontein Road)
• N3 in Leondale(Barry Marais Road)
• N17(Between Rondebult and Heidelberg roads)

Vehicles damaged by rocks on highway in Pretoria

According to Pretoria Rekord two vehicles sustained significant damage after striking large rocks placed on the N4 near Solomon Mahlangu onramp just after 05:00 this morning.

Although none of the drivers were hurt, one of the vehicles, a Nissan NP200, suffered a destroyed tyre and CV joint, while the other, a BMW, incurred damage to its water pump and critical engine components.

Remain vigilant, report suspicious activities

Vehicle tracking company Car Track had the following advice to avoid falling victim to spikings:

1. Where possible avoid driving at night.
2. Maintain a safe following distance so you can spot hazards and have space to manoeuvre out of situations.
3. Do not stop for objects on the road. If you spot something, move to the emergency lane or even the grass but keep driving.
4. Travel at a reasonable speed. Slow down to 80 km/h when driving through dangerous areas to give you time to spot obstacles on the road.
5. In an emergency, try to stay in the middle of the two lanes. This will make it easier to swerve left or right and avoid spikes.
6. Change lanes before passing under a bridge. Bridges are often hotspots for placing spikes.