CoCT's JP Smith condemns attacks on traffic officials
On Monday, two officers were attacked by a driver on the N2, who was later arrested, and in a separate incident on Tuesday, an officer was hit by a passing vehicle during a checkpoint on the Klipfontein Service Road in Athlone.
City Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith has condemned an attack on Ghost Squad members while performing their duties on 12 August 2024. Picture: JP Smith/Facebook
CAPE TOWN - City Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith has condemned an attack on traffic officials while performing their duties.
Ghost Squad officers were on patrol on the N2 on Monday when they spotted a motorist overtaking vehicles on the shoulder of the roadway near Borcherds Quarry.
A chase ensued after the driver refused to pull over, and officers eventually managed to stop the driver near Duinefontein Road, where he was informed that he would be arrested for reckless and negligent driving.
Smith said while attempting to handcuff him, the man resisted and assaulted the officer by stabbing him in the head, using his vehicle's keys.
He then grabbed hold of a second officer’s pepper spray and attacked the officials using the canister while punching and kicking them.
"While he got away initially, the driver was arrested at the Green Point traffic department when the owner of the taxi brought him in. He will be charged with assault and reckless and negligent driving.
"The three officers who were assaulted were taken to hospital and the incident has been reported to the South African Police Service. Our officers run the gauntlet daily in executing their duties, which are to the benefit and safety of all our residents."
In another incident on Tuesday, an officer was hit by a passing vehicle during a checkpoint on the Klipfontein service road in Athlone.
The officer was taken to hospital for medical treatment and the extent of his injuries is unknown.