AN uMhlanga resident thwarted a smash-and-grab attempt on the N2/M41 off-ramp, going towards Gateway recently as he managed to drive off before a would-be criminal made off with his bag. Durban North SAPS have warned motorists to be vigilant, especially in the vicnity of the roadworks where there have been a number of incidents. Lt Raymond Deokaran, police spokesman, says the area is a hotspot for this type of crime.

While there has been a reduction in smash-and-grabs this year, there has been a total of 14 cases Northglen News has reported on this particular stretch of road alone.

“In the latest incident, the driver saw a man approach his passenger window, he shattered the glass using what we suspect is a spark plug, but the resident was able to drive away. He saw the suspect running off into the bushes along the embankment. Hide your valuables. Car floors, dashboards and seats are not good places to leave items,” he said.

In July this year, a motorist had his gun stolen in a smash-and-grab at the same intersection.