Warning to Gauteng motorists as road spiking threats surge

Gauteng motorists are being warned to stay on high alert after a sharp rise in road spiking incidents, which are leaving vehicles disabled and drivers vulnerable to attack. The latest spate occurred on the N4 Eastbound between Silverlakes and Donkerhoek, where rocks deliberately placed on the road caused multiple flat tyres.

The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) said the trend is growing dangerously, particularly at night, with opportunistic attackers targeting isolated drivers.

“Spikes or sharp objects are placed on the road to disable vehicles, forcing drivers to stop. It is in this moment of isolation that attackers strike, stealing valuables before disappearing into the dark,” the union warned.

MISA is calling on authorities to step up safety measures immediately, stressing that commuters’ lives are at stake.

The latest attack comes less than five weeks after a MISA employee was targeted in a similar spiking incident on an N14 onramp in Krugersdorp, where objects were placed in her path. She managed to escape without injury.

The union said, despite public awareness campaigns by the South African Police Service and other law enforcement bodies, the prevalence of spiking on national roads in Gauteng remains alarmingly high.

According to MISA, experts suggest these crimes are opportunistic, with attackers exploiting the vulnerability of isolated drivers, particularly at night.

“Spikes or sharp objects are placed on the road to disable vehicles, forcing drivers to stop. It is in this moment of isolation that attackers strike, stealing valuables before disappearing into the dark,” said the union.

Martlé Keyter, MISA’s chief executive officer of operations, expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis.

Keyter said the union is alarmed by the escalation of these incidents because it has now become the norm.

“Spiking incidents place workers and their loved ones at risk when they travel. We work in an industry where employees have no choice but to adjust their working hours to accommodate customers. This situation makes MISA members even more vulnerable,” she said.

Keyter emphasised the unacceptable danger posed to workers who are simply trying to earn a living.

While MISA commended law enforcement for increased visibility on roads, particularly under the leadership of Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, the organisation appealed for more focused action.

On behalf of its 75,000 members, MISA called for increased safety measures at known freeway hotspots, especially during nighttime hours.

MISA also addressed a separate, concerning trend of motorists faking spiking incidents for insurance claims.

“MISA condemns this behaviour and can only plead with motorists to be honest as fake claims waste valuable resources that could assist real victims,” added Keyter.

karen.singh@inl.co.za