The City of Cape Town is set to invest R180 million in the construction of a security wall along the N2 highway, particularly in the vicinity of Cape Town International Airport.
This initiative aims to curb the alarming rise in violent crime targeting motorists in the area, exacerbated by ongoing smash-and-grab attacks and other dangerous incidents, reported by TimesLive.
The urgency for this project was underscored by recent tragic events, including the heartbreaking case of retired teacher Karin van Aardt, who lost her life while navigating the route with her husband.
Such incidents have instigated public outcry and a renewed demand for safety improvements, particularly for those travelling through this highly trafficked zone.
The N2, although a national road administered by SANRAL and the provincial authorities, will see local government intervention, with Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis advocating for the construction of the security wall to be included in the city’s forthcoming capital budget, as per report by TimesLive.
In addition to the wall, the city has previously deployed 40 metro police officers to patrol the N2 and the nearby Borcherds Quarry area, a measure that aims to bolster safety amid reports of increased stone-throwing incidents and fatal attacks along the N2 and R300 highways.
These reckless actions have led to growing community concerns, causing many drivers to fear for their safety on these major routes.
Emre Uygun, a councillor representing the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus), has been actively gathering reports from anxious motorists. His accounts include harrowing incidents, such as the targeting of a Johannesburg family, including a baby, who were struck by a stone while travelling.
Another disheartening case involved a doctor from Somerset West who suffered chest injuries from similar assaults near Borcherds Quarry.
Typically, these attacks follow a chilling pattern: stones or bricks are hurled from pedestrian bridges or roadside areas, shattering vehicle windows and immobilising drivers. Victims are often left vulnerable to robbery, hijacking, or assault, illustrating the urgent need for effective intervention.
In light of the alarming trend, JP Smith, Mayco for Safety and Security, sought to reassure the public regarding ongoing efforts to enhance safety.
He confirmed that the city’s Safety and Security Directorate is actively engaging law enforcement and has established a dedicated Highway Patrol Unit to support motorist safety along crucial routes.
‘Our officers are out on the highways every day, removing debris and ensuring the safety of all drivers. We are also working in concert with the South African Police Service, the Western Cape Government, and private security firms,’ he highlighted.
Of the 2,125 incidents recorded by the police, Smith noted that approximately 85% were attributable to mechanical issues, rather than criminal activity as suggested by Uygun’s reports.
‘While the South African Police Service remains the leading agency on crime prevention, we are doing our utmost to support their endeavours, even though constant presence at every hotspot is not feasible,’ Smith concluded.
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