Cyclists from across Cape Town took to the streets this weekend in a mass protest ride to raise awareness of the growing number of attacks on cyclists commuting via the Woodstock Bridge, Marine Drive Bridge and the Milnerton MyCiTi bus lane heading into the CBD.
The protest aimed to highlight the safety concerns faced by cyclists who rely on these critical routes, which have become increasingly dangerous due to rising incidents of crime.
The purpose of the mass ride was to create an awareness of attacks on cyclists commuting via the cycle lane and the N1 into town.
Starting in Milnerton, the riders traced the MyCiTi bus lane into the city, stopping at key points to emphasise the vulnerability of these stretches of road. Organisers called for urgent action from authorities to improve security measures, enhance lighting and ensure safer conditions for non-motorised commuters. Participants, united in their demand for change, hope this ride will serve as a wake-up call to prioritise the safety of all road users.
With hundreds of riders donning brightly coloured gear and carrying banners calling for safer infrastructure and increased security, the event sought to send a clear message: cyclists deserve to commute without fear.
More visibility
According to one of the organisers who wished to remain anonymous due to fear of victimisation, more police visibility was being demanded.
“About 1 000 cyclists participated,” he said.
An email to Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith relates how dozens of cyclists have been badly brutalised, their bikes stolen and victims left bleeding and wounded in the road.
“A while ago, a motorist waiting in morning traffic experienced a smash-and-grab incident in the exact same area,” it reads. “There are many incidents that have not been reported to the authorities, and the situation is getting worse by the day.
“So the issue revolves around safety and security for our citizens and visitors, particularly at this time of the year.
“This situation is different, though, as commuters are being deliberately and brutally attacked.”
These areas have been identified as dangerous during the hours of 04:00 to 11:00.
“There is enough evidence to counter these criminal activities and to demonstrate to the public that Cape Town is not being policed properly.”
In response, the office of Smith said he had called for an urgent meeting with the MECs for Urban Mobility and Community Safety.
Incidents
One of the cyclists, Robbie Grant, posted on social media in December that he was mugged and knocked off his bike before 06:00 before Woodstock Bridge.
“One guy on the side of the road moved to middle lane, and next I felt a smack on the shoulder and was down on the road. His buddy came and made sure I stayed down by kicking me hard. They went through my pockets and took everything.
“To other cyclists let me say one thing, and listen when I say this, they have no regard for your life. To them your life is worthless; you are nothing to them, and all they want is what you have. Your life is nothing! If you fight back they get worse.
“I was at Woodstock Police Station to make a report when another cyclist was there already, also mugged and his stuff taken away. Sadly, we can no longer get on our bicycles and ride and enjoy the sport we love.”
One cyclist was also attacked while riding from Bloubergstrand to Cape Point.
“I made it only to Paarden Island. Five guys attacked me and pulled me off the bike and started hitting and kicking me. They were not interested in my bike or even my watch or Garmin Edge.
“They were interested in my cellphone and any credit cards that I had with me . . .” he says. “Luckily, I had no cards with me. There is a syndicate currently targeting cyclists specifically for their cellphones and credit cards. They are extremely well organised and within half an hour they start hacking. I had an iPhone 15 and what they got to was a bit scary. Apparently there is information on the SIM card that they can get to.”
One of the organisers say the hopes of the protest is to demand visible policing on the Woodstock Bridge area between 05:00 and 13:00 daily.
