Road maintenance turns hostile as JRA workers allegedly assaulted in Rivonia
Johannesburg Roads Agency workers were forced to abandon routine maintenance work in Rivonia after a motorist allegedly assaulted them and hurled racial abuse, sparking outrage and calls for respect on the city’s roads.
The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has condemned a violent incident in Rivonia where its employees were allegedly assaulted and subjected to racial abuse while carrying out routine road maintenance duties.
The incident occurred on January 23, on 12th Avenue between Gemsbok and Cawly roads, where JRA officials were clearing vegetation ahead of scheduled pothole repairs.
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According to the agency, a motorist became angered by the temporary disruption caused by the maintenance work and proceeded to physically attack the workers while directing racial slurs at them.
The assault forced the workers to abandon their duties and report the matter at the nearest police station, resulting in delays to planned service delivery in the area.
JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi described the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, warning that attacks on municipal workers will not be tolerated.
“The uncontrolled anger and blatant disregard for human dignity displayed in this incident is unacceptable,” said Nyathi. “Our officials are simply doing their jobs to improve road conditions for residents. They should not be subjected to abuse, intimidation, or violence while on duty.”
Nyathi added that any individuals found responsible for such acts would face the full might of the law.
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The JRA stressed that attacks on its staff not only violate the basic human rights of employees but also undermine the delivery of essential municipal services that communities rely on.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg, Kenny Kunene, echoed the agency’s concerns and appealed to motorists to show restraint and cooperation.
“We urge road users to respect maintenance teams and to understand that temporary inconveniences are necessary to improve infrastructure for everyone,” Kunene said. “No one should be put in danger while working to make our roads safer.”
The JRA has called on all road users to exercise patience, caution, and empathy when approaching maintenance sites, emphasising that roadworks are carried out in the interest of public safety and long-term service delivery.
The Sandton Chronicle reached out to JRA for more information in regard to this incident. Updates will be provided once they become available.
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