Motorists in Verulam have been urged to be extra vigilant and cautious when using the R102, following the growing number of reported rock-throwing incidents at a bridge in the vicinity.
The suspects have damaged a number of vehicles including emergency services, who were attacked while passing the R102 and Oakford Road. The most recent incident took place last Thursday, when a windscreen of a Toyota Hilux bakkie was damaged after an object was thrown from the bridge.
Following multiple reports of residents throwing rocks at passing vehicles in Verulam, the chairman of the Verulam Community Policing Forum Youth Desk Armit Sukdeo, is urging motorists to be vigilant at all times. Sukdeo said drivers need to lower their speed when approaching the ‘danger zone’ and constantly monitor the surroundings.
“We appeal to all motorists to avoid driving on quiet roads at night. They must keep emergency numbers on speed dial for quick response,” he said. Sukdeo called on culprits to stop “the evil deed” as they put many lives in danger. “Stone-throwers need to be arrested. We cannot stand for individuals causing damage in our community.” Susan Pillay, a witness to the rock-throwing, said a woman was driving her car along the bypass when an object was thrown from the bridge onto her vehicle. “It smashed her windscreen, but she fortunately managed to pull over safely. I saw young people running away from the bridge after the incident,” she said. Pillay expressed that such behaviour is not only dangerous, but it is intimidating and unpleasant for motorists. “Stone-throwing is still continuing, but members of public order policing are there to stop these residents from throwing passing vehicles with stones.”
Police officers have been dispatched to the scene on several occasions following reports of incidents. However, it is alleged that the suspects run away soon after noticing police vehicles.
Captain Rhynes, eThekwini Central District communications officer, said that when police officers arrive on scene, the suspects flee into the bush. “There is no case related to stone-throwing reported at the local police station. The motive behind the incidents is unknown,” she said.
Rhynes mentioned that there have been no injuries reported, but confirmed that a number of vehicles had been damaged.
