Beware the Spikes!

Rustenburg – Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire has issued an urgent safety alert following an increase in vehicle spiking incidents along several South African highways, including the N1N4 route. The warning, issued on 31 October 2025, urges motorists to exercise extra caution when driving at night, as criminals are placing spikes and other sharp objects on roads to puncture tyres and force vehicles to stop. Once stationary, drivers and passengers are at risk of being robbed or assaulted. Bakwena is working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Metropolitan Police, and Provincial Traffic Authorities through the Road Incident Management System (RIMS) to investigate the incidents and increase visibility and patrols along affected routes.

Motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow Bakwena’s key safety advice:

• Travel during daylight hours whenever possible.
• Drive at lower speeds at night to give yourself more time to react.
• Travel in groups or convoys for added safety.
• If your tyres are spiked, slow down and drive to the nearest safe, well-lit location — such as a police station or service station — before stopping.

In the case of an emergency while travelling on the Bakwena N1N4 route, contact the 24-hour toll-free number: 0800 225 9362.