Motorists travelling along Malibongwe Road near the N7 are facing a growing threat as smash-and-grab incidents spike in the area. The rise in these crimes has left drivers shaken, with many now opting for alternative routes to avoid becoming the next target.
Recent reports indicate that Malibongwe and Potsdam Road remain some of the most notorious hotspots for smash-and-grabs and protest action in the Table View and Milnerton areas. TygerBurger previously highlighted the troubling increase in these incidents, which have only escalated in recent months.
Community members and motorists are calling for increased law enforcement presence and enhanced security measures to curb these incidents. Some have suggested the installation of CCTV cameras and improved street lighting as deterrents.
“We need a stronger police presence in these high-crime areas. Criminals know they can get away with smash-and-grabs because there aren’t enough patrols. More officers on the ground could make a real difference,” says Thabo Mdu, a local resident.
Sarah Baron, a frequent commuter, says: “Installing CCTV cameras and improving street lighting should be a priority. These measures would help deter criminals and make it easier to identify suspects when crimes do happen.”
Drone footage has proved to be a success in a previous incident which showed a thief breaking a car window and snatching valuables from inside the vehicle in broad daylight.
Drivers on high alert
Many commuters have shared their concerns, citing the frequency and brazenness of these attacks. Criminals are targeting vehicles stuck in congestion or waiting at traffic lights, swiftly breaking windows and grabbing valuables before vanishing into the surrounding areas.
A local motorist, who recently fell victim to such an attack, described the ordeal: “It happened so fast. One moment I was waiting at the light, and the next, my passenger window was shattered, and my handbag was gone. It’s terrifying how bold these criminals have become. I’m always on edge driving on Malibongwe now. It seems like every time I’m at a red light, I’m watching my mirrors to make sure no one is approaching my car. It’s really unsettling.”
Many are now opting to use public transport due to safety. “I’ve started taking alternative routes because I don’t feel safe anymore.
“I’ve heard of too many people getting their windows smashed right in front of them.
There’s been a noticeable increase in crime along Malibongwe, especially near the N7. It’s frustrating because it’s such a busy road, and you think you’re safe, but these incidents keep happening,” says Carla Davies.
Table View police spokesperson Capt Adriana Chandler confirmed the following (recent) cases that were reported at Table View Police Station relating to smash-and-grabs:
•On 01 March at 10:35 a vehicle was stationary on the corners of Malibongwe and Potsdam Road, when the suspect smashed the passenger window and grabbed a cell phone that was on display on the dashboard.
•On 02 March at 18:30 a passenger window was smashed and a laptop visible on the passenger seat was grabbed.
•On 21 March at 18:40 a cell phone was taken whilst the car was stationary in Malibongwe.
No arrests have been made in these cases that were reported.
“The police has issued numerous warnings to the community via print- and social media partners not to have valuable items on display in their vehicle, and to lock it inside the boot of their car while driving. These warnings have also been echoed at various community imbizos and crime awareness talks. This area has also been highlighted as a crime hot spot at these meetings and talks. Our shift vehicles and crime prevention unit regularly (daily) patrol the part of Malibongwe that is in our precinct,” Chandler says.
She says the majority of the smash and grabs occur on the side of Milnerton police’s precinct. The Milnerton police did not respond to TygerBurger’s enquiry at the time of print.
Unrest in Dunoon
Chandler confirmed to TygerBurger the recent unrest incidents in Dunoon. The incidents caused significant disruptions for motorists, forcing many to seek alternative routes as protests spilled over onto Malibongwe Road. The unrest, which escalated last week, saw roads barricaded with burning tires and debris, making it nearly impossible for commuters to pass safely.
As tensions flared, motorists were left stranded in long traffic delays or had to make sudden detours to avoid volatile areas. Many took to social media to warn others about the dangerous conditions, urging fellow drivers to steer clear of Malibongwe Drive and find safer routes.
A local driver, who was caught in the chaos, shared his experience: “I was on my way home when I saw smoke ahead. The traffic was already at a standstill, and then I noticed people blocking the road. I had to quickly turn around and take a longer route to avoid the trouble.”
The unrest has not only affected private motorists but also disrupted public transport services. Several taxi operators were forced to reroute or suspend services, leaving many commuters stranded. Local businesses have also felt the impact, with some forced to close their doors due to safety concerns.
The Table View Community Policing Forum (CPF) held patrols at Malibongwe Drive last week to monitor the situation for any possible flare up’s, after the severe protest action.
“Thank you to our armed response officers who joined us,” the CPF says.
Tips
Law enforcement officials have acknowledged the growing concern and have urged drivers to remain vigilant, keep their doors locked, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
Authorities recommend that drivers take the following precautions when traveling through high-risk areas:
•Keep all valuables out of sight or locked in the boot.
•Stay alert, especially when approaching traffic lights or slow-moving traffic.
•Maintain a safe following distance to allow for an escape route if necessary.
•Be cautious of suspicious individuals near intersections and avoid distractions such as mobile phones.
While officials work on addressing the issue, motorists are advised to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
