Eddie Loubser paid R2 500 for the damage to the rear of his vehicle after a recent trip to Weenen. On Saturday, February 13 Mr Loubser was travelling on the Rensburgdrift Road when he came to a halt due to rocks spread out across the road to prevent cars from passing.

Similar to the queue, which forms at a toll gate, drivers wanting to pass are approached by boys who demand money to pass or else your vehicle will be stoned. Mr Loubser described the boys as that of a school-going age and said they are accompanied by a man in his 50’s and of short stature.

“I politely declined to be blackmailed and be a victim of extortion; I considered it my free right to continue driving slowly through the obstacles and be on my way. The mob felt I was in the wrong and stoned my vehicle,” said Mr Loubser.

The loud thud of stones on the car was how the group retaliated. Mr Loubser felt that his rights are being interfered with and urged authorities via a Facebook post to deal with this unacceptable development decisively and speedily.

“This illegal activity is an endangerment of public safety. These ‘road raggers’ could have seriously injured an innocent driver or passengers, resulting in an uncalled for traumatic and life-threatening experience, this can easily happen if left to continue. It is the constitutional right of every citizen of the country to use public roads freely making it illegal and criminal to obstruct public roads unless done so by law enforcement. Secondly, blackmail and extortion is a contravention of civil law and therefore criminal,” added Mr Loubser.

Returning to Estcourt, Mr Loubser stopped at the police station to make them aware of the issue. Mr Loubser said he is glad that it did not escalate into robbery or serious personal injury. Ward six Councillor Breen Ally Buckus said the matter was brought to his attention.

“I went to check up on the issue and upon arriving at the scene where it all takes place found police clearing up a few stones. They made me aware that it was children carrying the act out,” said Mr Ally Buckus.

Reverend James Adams was also stopped by the group for money. He responded by sternly saying they will not get a cent out of him.

Police spokesperson Captain Charmaine Struwig responded to these concerns:

“To our knowledge a service delivery protest occurred on Sunday, February 14 in Rensburgdrift. The road way was blocked with rocks and other debris. Police were in attendance and the local ward councillor addressed the community. The community was satisfied with the response from the councillor and dispersed. The road was cleared and the roadway re-opened again. A small group of youth from the area saw an opportunity to make money by closing the road and demanding money from passing motorists. A motorist reported the incident to Estcourt SAPS and police visited the area.”

It’s been said the police cleared the road again and since then have been monitoring the situation.

“Any motorists who do come across these youths again are requested to make contact with the Estcourt SAPS on 036 342 9525/6 immediately so that we may apprehend those involved.

“Anyone who has been the victim of these youths and wishes to open a case of Malicious Damage to Property may also approach the police for assistance,” urged Captain Struwig.