Increased Spike Attacks Prompt Caution Among South African Motorists

This article discusses the increasing incidents of spike attacks affecting South African motorists, a pledge by the Gauteng Department of Health to enhance services at Helen Joseph Hospital, and the ongoing trial regarding the disappearance of six-year-old Joshlin Smith, featuring new witness testimonies.

Motorists in South Africa are being cautioned to remain vigilant due to a recent surge in spike-related incidents on the roads. According to reports from IOL, MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert emphasized that spikes, which can often be hidden under items such as plastic bags or clothing, pose a challenge for detection. These incidents have been observed on major routes including the N1, N12, N14, N4, R566, and R80. To safeguard against such dangers, drivers are encouraged to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, reduce their speed, and steer clear of suspicious items on the road. Should a spike incident occur, motorists are advised to reduce their speed to 40 km/h, continue driving to a secure area, and refrain from stopping until it is safe. For those traveling in rural areas, planning routes carefully, slowing down, and utilizing alternative lanes or grass verges is recommended to avoid potential spikes. Drivers should notify authorities as soon as it is safe to do so to prevent further incidents.

In another development, the Gauteng Department of Health has committed to improving services at Helen Joseph Hospital following a report that highlighted deficiencies in service delivery. This pledge follows an investigation based on a 2024 video by broadcaster Thomas Holmes, which depicted the hospital’s deteriorating conditions, as reported by EWN. While only two of Holmes’ claims were confirmed by the Health Ombud, other issues such as extended emergency ward stays and infrastructure neglect remain valid concerns. Department spokesperson Motaletale Modiba stated that the recommendations concerning governance, human resources, finance, supply chain management, and infrastructure would be prioritized for rapid implementation to resolve the hospital’s identified challenges.

Furthermore, the trial concerning the disappearance of Joshlin Smith, a six-year-old child missing since February 19, 2024, has advanced to its seventh day with testimonies from new witnesses hailing from Saldanha Bay. Joshlin’s mother, Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, her boyfriend Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and their friend Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn are facing charges including kidnapping and human trafficking, as reported by IOL. Constable Refilwe Sekhobe provided insights into her involvement in the case, noting that a state witness, Laurentia Lombaard, was reportedly under the influence of drugs with the accused on the day of Joshlin’s disappearance. Although van Rhyn initially alleged that Lombaard had left with Joshlin, he later recanted his statement, indicating that Joshlin might have been sold to a sangoma. Additional witnesses, including a neighbor, a former employer, and a family friend, offered differing perspectives regarding Kelly’s parenting and the circumstances of the child’s disappearance. The trial proceeds as more testimonies are anticipated to provide further clarity on this compelling case.

In conclusion, motorists in South Africa are urged to heighten their awareness of spike threats on the roads, particularly on major routes. The Gauteng Department of Health has committed to addressing the service challenges at Helen Joseph Hospital, while the trial concerning the disappearance of Joshlin Smith continues with new testimonies offering insights into the case. Ongoing vigilance and prompt reporting are critical in these matters.

Original Source: allafrica.com