Safety Alert: Travellers Warned of Crime Near Cape Town Airport

Authorities are sounding the alarm as violent crimes targeting motorists surge near Cape Town International Airport. Both locals and international tourists have fallen victim to robberies and assaults along key routes, including the N2 highway and Baden Powell Drive.

High-Risk Zones

Police have identified intersections and traffic lights near the airport as hotspot areas. Victims report ambushes that often escalate into violent attacks, with recent high-profile incidents drawing public concern:

• A woman was seriously injured when a concrete block was thrown at her vehicle on the N2.

• An American tourist was shot and robbed en route to Simon’s Town.

• An elderly German couple was ambushed on Baden Powell Drive.

Government Response

The issue was raised in Parliament by FF Plus MP Liezl van der Merwe, highlighting insufficient visible policing. Police Minister Firoz Cachalia clarified that airport border police cover the terminal itself, while the surrounding areas fall under the Nyanga policing district, one of the country’s most crime-affected zones.

To curb the threat, Nyanga SAPS and the City of Cape Town have been ordered to increase patrols at high-risk points. Despite this, statistics reveal a concerning trend: 42 incidents were reported near the airport alone between April 2024 and March 2025.

National Context

Vehicle-related crimes are rising nationwide. SAPS figures show over 19 000 “theft out of or from motor vehicle” cases in Q1 2025, averaging 210 per day. The Western Cape recorded 4 978 cases, second only to Gauteng.

Safety Advice

Security experts from Tracker advise motorists to follow the SMASH safety guide:

• Stay alert at intersections and known danger spots

• Make use of protective window film

• Avoid leaving valuables visible in your vehicle

• Safe driving to prevent being cornered

• Help by reporting suspicious activity immediately

Authorities urge travellers to plan routes carefully, avoid lone night travel, and remain vigilant. Local councillor Emre Uygun warns that unchecked crime threatens not only residents’ safety but also Cape Town’s reputation as a tourist destination.

Travelers are advised to stay alert and adopt practical safety measures when navigating routes to and from the airport.

{Source: Thesouthafrican}

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