Smash-and-grab incidents hit Century City

A SMASH-AND-GRAB attack near Century City area has motorists and Christmas shoppers on edge.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said that Milnerton police are investigating a case of malicious damage to property after a vehicle was struck with stones along Century Boulevard on Thursday night, 18 December.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said the incident occurred at about 11.25pm after the Canal Walk Shopping Centre was emptying out from the rush for last-minute festive shopping.

Twigg reported: “The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and no arrests have been made.”

Freedom Front Plus Councillor Emre Uygun said the Century City incident on the Sable Road offramp was not isolated and formed part of a broader pattern of attacks reported in and around the area over recent months.

“We are shocked and disturbed by continued reports of motorists being targeted along this stretch of road. We have repeatedly raised concerns about similar attacks in the area, particularly at night.”

Uygun alleged that in some incidents, rocks were deliberately placed in the roadway or thrown at vehicles, placing motorists at serious risk.

He added: “These attacks are extremely dangerous and could easily result in serious injury or loss of life. Without visible policing and decisive action, criminals will continue to exploit these areas.”

The party has called on all three spheres of government to implement proactive crime prevention measures, including increased patrols and targeted operations in known hotspot areas.

The latest attack comes as motorists across Cape Town are on edge over a string of smash-and-grabs.

Earlier this month, Nelspruit ouma Karin van Aardt, 64, was killed in a shocking attack near Cape Town International Airport, sparking outrage and renewed calls for tougher policing.

The case, along with other incidents, has highlighted a worrying trend of criminals using rocks and other objects to stop vehicles and target drivers.

Anyone with any information about the Century City incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.