Road spikes: Here's how you can AVOID being the next victim

Road spikes: Here’s how you can AVOID being the next victim

We take a look at the modus operandi of road spike robberies, give you tips to avoid another incident, and identify hotspots in Gauteng.

Criminals place spikes on the road during the nighttime, with the intention of robbing victims when they have to conduct an emergency stop due to burst tyres. Photo: Facebook

Motorists are warned to be extra vigilant as incidents of road spikes on public roads are increasing.

MEC Faith Mazibuko said criminals place spikes on the road during the nighttime, with the intention of robbing victims when they have to conduct an emergency stop due to burst tyres.

MODUS OPERANDI OF ROAD SPIKE ROBBERIES

Private investigator Mike Bolhuis explained the modus operandi road spikers use.

“When the vehicle is approximately 400-500 meters away, criminals throw the spikes in the road.

“Criminals also place the spikes in black plastic bags or cardboard boxes, and it is therefore not easy to recognize immediately.”

Bolhuis said criminals also use concrete lintels and place them right across the road.

“It is almost impossible for the driver to see this as it is too far away and too dark.”

He said there are usually two groups involved in this crime.

“The spiking group and the stopper group or the robbers.
The second group waits for about 50 – 150m away from the place where the spiking takes place.”

TIPS TO AVOID ROAD SPIKE ROBBERIES

Bolhuis warned that criminals also hang rocks and bricks at windscreen height from bridges to cause vehicles to stop before robbing them.

He suggested that motorists avoid driving alone at night.

“Ensure that your cellphone is charged to its maximum and if possible, share your live location with a family member or friend.”

Bolhuis added that motorists should avoid roads that are secluded and not lit as well as highways in and around the city at night.

“Never drive over a plastic bag or a cardboard box in the road. Drive approximately 100 – 200 meters behind another car in the same lane.
“Travel at a reasonable speed – that will allow you to swerve out of the way and avoid the spikes.”

He urged motorists to stay calm should happen that you do drive over the spikes.

“Stay calm and do not stop. Continue driving but reduce speed if need be. Do not panic if you hear the metal of your car’s rims or even see sparks.”

According to Bolhuis, it is less dangerous to proceed at 40km/hour than it is to stop.

WHERE ARE THE HOT SPOTS?

“Further down the road, you might be able to take an off-ramp, stop at a tollgate, or a garage where you will be able to make an emergency call or ask for help.”

The following routes have been identified as hotspots for such acts: