Photos and voice notes stormed social media on February 20 of armed suspects targeting unsuspecting motorists on their morning commute.

The National Commissioner of the Police General Fannie Masemola has ordered the maximum mobilisation of resources along Gauteng highways and other strategic locations during peak hour traffic. This comes after five men carrying 9mm guns robbed motorists of their belongings during rush hour traffic on the M1–M2 split at the Crown Interchange in Johannesburg.

According to Vision Tactical, based in Houghton, director Yaseen Theba said, “They reportedly used the bridges as a means to avoid capture.

“Our team, in collaboration with JMPD Tactical Response Unit members, thoroughly combed the area in search of the suspects,” added Theba.

Police have also increased the deployment of Highway Patrol, SAPS Airwing, and Gauteng Flying Squad units to monitor and conduct regular patrols along the designated routes.

Masemola confirmed that by this afternoon, no cases had been reported yet. He encouraged anyone who has fallen victim to this alleged crime to call the Johannesburg Central Police Station Commander on 082 332 5016.

Theba elaborated that there has been a noticeable uptick in incidents on the highways recently, which may be attributed to the higher temperatures. These conditions can lead drivers to let down their guard and open their windows, under the assumption that they are safe on the highway. “This makes them more vulnerable to criminal activities. We strongly recommend that the public stay alert and cautious while in traffic,” he said.

Theba added SAPS tracking teams were on the ground searching for these suspects. The difficulty faced by those investigating was the lack of information regarding the vehicle used by the suspects, as well as the exact number of victims targeted. The individuals who remained at the scenes were advised to report to the Johannesburg Central SAPS to file formal reports.

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