Another reported smash-and-grab near Cape Town International Airport has renewed concerns over the safety of motorists using one of the city’s notorious crime hotspots, where attacks continue despite repeated warnings about the dangers along the route.
A woman from Clanwilliam was allegedly targeted on Sunday while visiting Cape Town with her husband. Freedom Front Plus councillor Emre Uygun said her cellphone was stolen near the airport approach turn-off on the N2 towards Somerset West, leaving her deeply traumatised.
Uygun told IOL Media that he spoke to the victim over the phone late on Sunday night.
The councillor said at the time: “She is still in Cape Town with her husband and remains deeply traumatised by the incident, but went back home today [Monday].
Uygun advised the woman to open a case with SAPS in Clanwilliam and request that it be transferred to Nyanga police, as her cellphone had been stolen.
Concerns over attacks on female motorists
The circumstances surrounding the incident could not be independently verified, as the woman had yet to open a police case.
Uygun said he had noticed that female motorists, particularly those travelling alone, appeared to be frequent targets of attacks along the N2 and R300.
He also shared a photograph which he claimed showed suspects wat die N2 dop hou for vulnerable motorists earlier last week.
Uygun said: “Many of the victims targeted in incidents along the N2 and R300 are female motorists. Some other female motorists suffered severe head and face injuries as a result of these attacks on the ‘Hell Run’.”
The latest incident adds to ongoing concerns about motorists being targeted by smash-and-grab gangs on major roads around Cape Town.
City's warning over N2 crime hotspot
The City of Cape Town identifies this section of N2 as a particular crime hotspot, warning that incidents of vehicles being stoned can lead to hijackings.
The City advised motorists to keep their doors locked, windows closed, and all valuables out of sight. Drivers should stay alert, monitor their surroundings, watch for loiterers at intersections and exercise extra caution at night or in secluded areas.
Motorists should avoid pulling over on freeways - including to answer phone calls - except during genuine emergencies or breakdowns, and immediately report any incidents or suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the City's control room at 021 596 1999.