Elderly couple attacked by fake helpers on N1 highway near Century City

In a shocking incident on New Year’s evening, an elderly deaf couple was reportedly attacked and robbed on the N1 Highway near Century City by suspects dressed in reflective vests.

The couple’s vehicle had broken down just before the M5 turn-off when they were approached by men who posed as good samaritans.

Reports state that the couple was brutally assaulted with pangas, and their belongings including wallets and cellphones were stolen.

In the attack, the male victim’s hearing aid was also damaged, leaving both he and his wife extremely distressed.

An anonymous motorist who stopped to help described the horrifying aftermath: ‘There was blood, and his hearing aid had been broken. The woman was in shock, which made communication difficult,’ she recalled, quoted by the Cape Argus.

The couple’s misfortune began with a car breakdown. Suspects fled when another driver slowed down and activated hazard lights. Despite swift aid from good Samaritans, police took 30 to 40 minutes to arrive.

Another attack on Cape Town’s Hell Highway.

The victims with hearing disabilities.@uygunemre735 – only councilor that seems to be taking this seriously!

He needs our support!!

“My comment to Cape Argus this morning regarding the N1 attack:

The Freedom Front Plus is deeply…

— Gina (@ginnydmm) January 4, 2026

Uygun Freedom Front Plus’s Ward councillor Emre expressed disappointment over the increasing violence on South African highways, stating, ‘This disturbing incident has not only traumatized the victims but has also heightened our concerns regarding the escalating violence on our highways,’

Highlighting the persistent nature of highway violence, Emre pointed out that nearly every month, multiple reports of highway attacks emerge, putting pressure on local, provincial, and national governments to take decisive action. ‘We have been pleading… to protect citizens traveling on our national routes, especially for motorists who are forced to drive on the N2 ‘Hell Run’ to get to work,’ Emre disclosed.

In light of recent attacks, there are calls for improved visibility and security measures along dangerous routes such as the N1, N2, and R300.

Emre also expressed concerns over a substantial budget allocated by SANRAL amounting to over R100 billion for safeguarding highways, urging transparency and proactive measures to mitigate violent incidents.