Stay alert on N4 and N12: Spiking incidents reported throughout the year
Motorists travelling along the N4 and N12 highways near eMalahleni are being informed of spiking incidents, which have occurred repeatedly throughout 2025.
As the festive holidays continue, motorists travelling along the N4 and N12 near eMalahleni are being informed about road spiking incidents, which have been reported multiple times this year.
These incidents involve metal spikes or rocks deliberately placed on the road, damaging vehicles and creating dangerous situations for drivers.
Some incidents reported by WITBANK NEWS this year include:
February: Five cars travelling from eMalahleni toward Bronkhorstspruit drove over spikes on the N4.
One of the drivers shared in the Spiking Alzu to N12 WhatsApp group: “We were one of five cars spiked on the N4 20 minutes ago coming from Witbank to Bronkhorstspruit, 13 km outside of Bronkhorstspruit. We made it back safely but left four cars on the N4 still trying to make their way back.”
On the N4, a VW Amarok driver was forced into the bushes after hitting spikes, where he was robbed of his cellphone, laptop, wallet, and wedding ring. Police later located him and allowed him to call his wife.
On the N12, multiple vehicles were damaged after driving over rocks deliberately placed across lanes between the R42 and R50 exits. Drivers managed to reach safety, but the rocks caused extensive tire damage.
A motorist on the R35 between Middelburg and Bethal avoided serious damage after installing run-flat tires and a green protective slime in his wheels. On February 7, he drove over suspected spikes near Komati Power Station, hearing a clacking sound from the rear wheel, but avoided a major incident.
Read more here: https://www.citizen.co.za/witbank-news/news-headlines/2025/02/12/mans-precautionary-measures-save-his-from-becoming-a-spiking-statistic/
Precautions for motorists:
Avoid stopping immediately if you drive over spikes; slow down and move to the emergency lane or grass.
Keep a safe following distance to spot hazards early.
Travel at reasonable speeds, slowing to around 80 km/h in high-risk areas.
Install run-flat tires or protective slime to reduce tire damage.
Read more here: https://www.citizen.co.za/witbank-news/news-headlines/2025/10/26/warning-bakkie-spiked-on-n4/
Be extra cautious near bridges and known hotspot areas, where spikes are often placed. Motorists can also join the N4 Spiking Prevention Group WhatsApp group for updates by contacting Arthur Hill at 083 870 9693.
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