The N11, a critical national artery, facilitates the daily transit of countless vehicles. Yet, the stretch between Newcastle and Ladysmith appears to be noting an increase in armed robberies targeting motorists. This follows yet another robbery a few days ago.
On Saturday, 24 May 2025, a 31-year-old motorist was navigating the N11 shortly after 2 pm when a vehicle drew alongside him near the NPA, aggressively attempting to force him to stop.
When he resisted, the pursuing vehicle executed a dangerous manoeuvre, causing the terrified driver to lose control and halt.
As confirmed by Lizzy Arumugam, Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, once the victim’s vehicle came to a standstill, the second vehicle stopped. Two assailants approached the motorist, and robbed him of cash and a mobile phone, with the stolen items valued at just over R5,000.
While no arrests have been made, Arumugam underscored the SAPS’s commitment to addressing the matter, with ongoing investigations to apprehend the perpetrators underway. Alarmingly, this incident marks the second such robbery within a mere week.
As reported by Newcastillian News, on Saturday, 17 May 2025, at approximately 4 pm, a driver travelling from Ladysmith to Newcastle on the N11 fell victim to a coordinated ambush.
Newcastle SAPS spokesperson Lizzy Arumugam confirmed that two vehicles executed a pincer movement, one blocking the motorist’s car from the front and the other from behind, leaving no avenue for escape. An armed suspect emerged from one of the vehicles, robbing the driver of over R9,000 in cash before the group fled.
To read more, click here.
However, it must be emphasised that these are not isolated occurrences. In February 2024, Newcastillian News reported that two men travelling from Volksrust to Newcastle stopped near the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) bridge for a brief roadside break.
Following which, three armed men pulled over and confronted them, robbing them of cash at gunpoint before fleeing.
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Then, in April 2024, another incident involved a 38-year-old man driving along the N11. According to Newcastillian News, two men in a separate vehicle signalled him to pull over. When he stopped to investigate, one assailant brandished a firearm, forcibly removing him from his car and seizing his mobile phones and approximately R49,000 in cash.
To read more, click here.
Additionally, Newcastillian News reported on robbery near Durnacol, where a motorist heard a stone strike his windscreen while driving on the N11. Concerned about potential damage, he pulled over to inspect his vehicle. Four men from a BMW bearing a GP registration plate approached, two wielding firearms. They demanded access to his car and cubbyhole, getting away with R120,000 in cash and two mobile phones.
To read more, click here.
While it remains unconfirmed whether the same culprits are behind these incidents, motorists are urged to exercise heightened caution and vigilance.
Additionally, Sandile Mdluli, the Public Relations Officer for the Newcastle Community Policing Forum, stated that the forum is aware of the escalating concerns regarding targeted robberies along the N11. “The SAPS are also duly aware and are investigating these incidents,” stressed Mdluli, who urged motorists to prioritise their safety while travelling.
With this in mind, the Newcastle CPF provided the following essential tips:
- Stay Alert: Maintain constant awareness of your surroundings, remaining vigilant for suspicious vehicles parked off the road or following you.
- Keep Windows Up: Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times, particularly when stationary. Do NOT stop if your vehicle is struck by stones or objects are thrown towards it.
- Travel in Groups: Whenever feasible, travel with companions and avoid driving alone at night or during the early morning hours when darkness prevails.
- Plan Your Route: Adhere to main roads and steer clear of isolated areas. Familiarise yourself with rest stops and petrol stations along your journey.
- Report Suspicious Behaviour: If you observe anything unusual, promptly report it to the police. Ensure you have at least two emergency contact numbers accessible while travelling, and inform someone of your departure and estimated arrival time.
“By taking these precautions, we can help enhance our safety and community well-being,” concluded Mdluli.
The alarming frequency of armed robberies along the N11 underscores a pressing need for heightened vigilance among motorists. These incidents, marked by brazen tactics and significant financial losses, highlight the importance of proactive measures to ensure personal safety. The SAPS’s commitment to increased patrols and investigations offers some reassurance, but the onus remains on drivers to remain alert and adopt defensive strategies to mitigate risks.
The Newcastle Community Policing Forum’s practical guidance serves as a vital resource for navigating this increasingly perilous route. By adhering to these recommendations and fostering a collective commitment to safety, the community can work towards reclaiming the N11 as a secure corridor for all travellers.
What are your thoughts on the above? Share your views in the comment section below.
4 Responses
HOW DOES ONE MITIGATE THIS THREAT. EVEN IF ONE IS VIGIL
Wis thus road patrolled?
Always a hefty sum of cash is involved. How do these hijackers have knowledge of this?
Good Evening, Crime has stats of reported cases. Many citizens take their losses move on ,unless assault is GBH . Why because, Call for assistance comes hours later if it comes or get answered. Others stakeholders assistance to SAPS . This must article mentions tips, These are in these positions self elected, not by Approved locals. No public individuals and SAPS members go to life scene, but attend a dead scene as they value their life’s. They are they only their for self gain just like politians