Attacks on cyclists along the route of the Durbanville farms are not a new trend – one association has even gone as far as seeking help from the government to resolve the issue.
TygerBurger reported on the attacks on cyclists in the area around the Durbanville farms last week.
In the news report Gary Bannister, a cyclist, explained that the attacks are often shared on social media; that cycling in this area can be risky if you are not in a group, and that people should be made aware of the high risks, or hot-spot areas.
Bannister was referring specifically to Tygerberg Valley Road, a route he himself uses, however cyclists often also make use of Giel Basson Drive and Contermanskloof Road in the area.
District Watch, a private security company, said last week that cyclists and joggers have been stopped and robbed for years on these two back roads, including Vissershok Road and the farm roads at the back of Durbanville.
“There seems to be an increase in this crime on outdoor-enthusiasts taking place,” said Gawie Venter, District Watch spokesperson.
PPA concerned about safety
The Pedal Power Association (PPA) said they too are very much aware of the ongoing safety issue in the area.
“It is of great concern to us. We also encourage cyclists not to cycle alone in the area.
“The Bothasig police are trying their best to patrol the area whenever they can, but criminals do not always attack in the same spot, they move around. We are currently in talks with local government with regards to the safety issues cyclists are faced with,” says Neil Robinson, PPA chief executive.
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The best advice is to avoid cycling in the area on your own, the PPA says.
“When cycling in a group, it is preferable to have a back-up vehicle following the group. If there is no backup vehicle available, please keep an eye on the riders at the back of the group as they usually become victims of attacks especially if they fall behind. Please practise ‘situational awareness’ in other words always pay attention to your surroundings and constantly be on the lookout for potentially dangerous situations.
“The use of earphones and chatting to your fellow cyclists are distracting and can lead to an attack. Stay alert if you are approaching persons who appear to be waiting to cross the road. Many of the attackers also jump out from behind bushes or ditches next to the road, which catches the cyclist off guard,” says Robinson.
‘Be wary’ police warn
WO Jacques Mostert, Bothasig police spokesperson, also highlighted the importance of safety.
“Cyclist stopping to check their cellphones or tracking gadgets have also fallen prey to robbers who were standing next to the road looking like workers.
“A young cyclist’s bicycle was taken while riding with his family at the back of the group. The robber, a pedestrian, was dressed as a construction worker and even wearing a high visibility vest. When the cyclist passed him, he knocked him off the bicycle and ran across the field to Dunoon with the stolen bicycle.
“Cyclists are sensitised to travel in groups when cycling and if possible, to avoid the area,” says Mostert.
He added that robberies have also occurred in the areas of Atlantic Hills where cyclists have been targeted and robbed of their bicycles.
Bannister also indicated that robberies occur along the route from Milnerton to the city, however Capt Nopaya Madyibi, Milnerton police spokesperson, confirmed last week that no recent cases have been reported.
