Criminals use potholes to target victims
Reports have emerged of criminals using potholes to target unsuspecting victims on the R538.
As if potholes weren't bad enough, criminals have now found a way to use them to their advantage.
Potholes reported at two traffic circles on the R538 in Masoyi, Mpumalanga, have been left to further deteriorate for the past six months.
According to Lowvelder, the two traffic circles are located near the Numbi Gate entrance to Kruger National Park.
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The potholes have frequently been reported to the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport without any intervention.
They've been left unattended for so long that criminals are now using them to commit crimes.
Velly Mbowane, a Masoyi local, told Lowvelder about his experience with crime at the potholes, when he was robbed at gunpoint after slowing down due to the poor road conditions.
"The potholes are so big, the vehicles cannot pass through. When approaching the area, drivers need to slow down. That is how I was robbed. They waited for me at the circle next to the Ntsikazi Clinic," Mbowane said.
"As I slowly drove over the circle, they approached the car, pointed their guns at me, and demanded I open the doors. They stole my phone, wallet, and laptop."
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Another victim, Sylvia Chauke, said: "The potholes are very bad. When it’s raining, they fill with water and you cannot risk driving through them. I was robbed at the Swalala circle on April 13 by two men.
"They waited for me to approach the circle. I realised they meant harm. They fired some shots, instructing me to open the car. I thought they wanted the car, but they demanded money and my phone."
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Image: Lowvelder