CONSTRUCTION work on the N2 overpass has stopped after threats were leveled against workers by ‘armed and dangerous groups’. According to uMhlanga ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, construction work has also halted at gate six, which leads into the Mount Edgecombe Estate.

“At this stage, it’s not clear who the armed groups are but they have disrupted work on the N2, Cornubia and the entrance to Kindlewood Estate, gate six of Mount Edgecombe Estate. This has seen South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) workers down tools. It has also caused major issues, especially with traffic going in and out of the estate. Metro Police are now controlling the entrance and exit of the pass,” he said.

A notice by the Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate Two said they cannot enforce security measures on the SANRAL construction site or influence the situation between the armed groups and government.

“The situation which has arisen at gate six is the result of armed and dangerous groups trying to exert pressure on local government through intimidation. SAPS are unable to resolve the situation or provide security. We are, however, doing our utmost to address the situation through all channels available to us,” the notice said.

The notice added that the estate staff would continue to man gate six and allow residents to use this gate, however, they strongly advised residents to make use of gates four and five as alternatives.