Avoid the N12! Burning tyres and ‘makeshift spike strips’ block major Gauteng highway

The SA Police Service (SAPS) has arrived at the N12 between Kingsway Avenue and Putfontein Road near Springs, Gauteng, after protesters blocked the road with rocks, burning tyres, and makeshift spike strips.

The City of Ekurhuleni confirmed to The Citizen that the unrest has been linked to illegal mining in the area.

“Fighting illegal miners has closed off the roadway. SAPS is currently at the scene and requested back up from the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).”

However, this was disputed by a source within the DA’s Ekhurhuleni caucus, who claimed it was a service delivery protest.

Motorists have been advised to avoid the route.

While all six lanes were initially closed, City spokesperson Katlego Mphahlele said routes heading East towards Mpumalanga have since been cleared.

Westbound lanes towards Johannesburg remain blocked.

The City said motorists going West can use Snake Road as an alternative route.

“The reason for the temporary closure of the on and off-ramp on Putfontein is so that the protesters don’t come onto the N12 Freeway to barricade it again and interrupt the flow of traffic,” it said.

This is a developing story