Alleged smash-and-grabber hit by car

AN ALLEGED robber was run over by a driver on Saturday afternoon in 35th Street, Elsies River, in a smash-and-grab attempt.

Video footage of the incident made the rounds on social media, as 35th Street is a known hotspot for smash and grabs despite numerous warning campaigns and patrols.

Community leaders and residents have constantly warned motorists of the dangers when passing through 35th Street, encouraging motorists to be vigilant and not drive with the windows rolled down.

he man is seen struggling to stay up as he lay on the ground covered in blood, with his clothes ripped, his pants pulled halfway down and not able to move his legs.

People on the scene can be heard saying: “Meneer jy kan nie, stop dit,” and “hy wil hardloop but sy bene is gebreek”.

A woman can be hear saying: “Erg is julle. Wil nou vir Lee gerob het. Toe ons op gaan toe se Lee hy gaan 'n k*k ding oorkom. Toe ons terug kom en toe is hy gestamp. Julle wil nie hoor nie.”

Sounding the alarm was community leader, Steve Ross, who constantly warned motorists and pedestrians to pas op for 35th Street.

Ross said that the incident was inevitable to happen but foresee more of these incidents happening during the holiday season.

Ross explained: “This incident was inevitable, and more could happen in the future, as human flesh has no chance against metal.

“However, the rejoicing on social media speaks to the public’s frustrations and anger with the constant stress and fear of traveling in these hotspots.

“It highlights the thoughts of people who worked hard for their possessions and people are sick and tired of losing it to these skollies.

“I anticipate an increase of such crimes during the school holidays, but I also foresee more of them being caught and beaten up by the general public and even knocked over intentionally, because the anger is getting real and more personal now.”

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that no criminal case has been opened but  encouraged people involved to open a saak at their nearest police station for investigation.