Police advise drivers not to stop on freeways

Two armed robberies were reported on the N1 freeway just before the N4 off-ramp on Tuesday, police said.

September 30, 2016

Eliot Mahlase 2 minutes read

The Brooklyn police pleads with motorists and pedestrians not to stop or walk on freeways.

The plea comes after several armed robberies were reported in the Villieria, Silverton, Brooklyn and Sunnyside policing precincts.

Police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said two armed robberies were reported on the N1 freeway just before the N4 off-ramp on Tuesday.

“In the first robbery, on Tuesday at 16:40, a pedestrian was waiting for his lift at the off-ramp when he was robbed by three unknown men, one of whom was armed,” she said.

The second robbery occurred at 20:30 after a motorist ran out of fuel at the same spot.

Three men, possibly the same group, robbed the man of his personal belongings and fled.

Weilbach said robbers sometimes used women to lure motorists to stop.

She said the police had since put plans in place to address the problem and would do everything possible to arrest the perpetrators.

Weilbach gave the following safety tips:

– Motorists should not to expose themselves to unnecessary danger.

– It is unlawful for any person to be on foot on a freeway, except if they are within an area reserved for the stopping or parking of vehicles or if there is a cause beyond a person’s control – such as vehicle breakdowns or accidents.

– Do not stop on the freeway if there is a need to go to the loo. Rather make use of petrol stations. Urinating in public is also unlawful.

– Ensure your vehicle is in good condition when you plan to go on a journey.

– Ensure the car has sufficient fuel.

– Always lock your vehicle’s doors and keep the windows closed.

– Avoid stopping in remote places.

– Do not give strangers a lift.

– Do not open your windows for hawkers along the road or at traffic lights.

– Lock your valuables in the boot before departure.