MOTHIBISTAD, KURUMAN – Motorists travelling on the N14 road during early morning or late evening hours are being urged to exercise extreme caution following the discovery of a criminal plot designed to target unsuspecting drivers.
Police in Mothibistad near Kuruman in the Northern Cape have issued the warning after officers uncovered fake road construction signs that had been deliberately placed on the N14 near Kagung Village during the early hours of Saturday 10 January, at approximately 03:00.
Members of the South African Police Service were conducting a routine blue light patrol when they encountered the fraudulent road signs and equipment, which had been strategically positioned to create what appeared to be a legitimate stop-and-go construction point.
The elaborate setup was designed to force motorists to halt their vehicles, at which point the occupants would be attacked with stones and robbed of their belongings by waiting criminals.
ALSO READ: Police seize drugs worth R20 million in nationwide operations
Police immediately removed the obstruction and reopened the road to traffic. Despite a thorough search of the area, no suspects were apprehended at the scene.
“We are urging the public to remain alert and vigilant, particularly when travelling during late-night and early-morning hours,” said Captain Nomvuyo Makoloi, commander of the Visible Policing Unit. “Any suspicious road blockages or activities should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities.”
Captain Makoloi confirmed that whilst no incidents have been officially reported to date, the discovery of the fake roadworks demonstrates the need for heightened awareness amongst road users.
Motorists are advised to:
- Exercise particular caution when travelling during hours of darkness
- Report any suspicious roadside activity to police immediately
- Remain vigilant for unusual or unexpected road signs and barriers
- Trust their instincts if something appears suspicious
You must be logged in to post a comment.