Travellers using Cape Town International Airport are being urged to remain vigilant amid a surge in violent criminal attacks targeting motorists near the airport and surrounding routes.
Both locals and international tourists have been ambushed at intersections and traffic lights, with several incidents turning violent.
Authorities have identified hotspot areas just outside the airport precinct, particularly along the N2 highway and Baden Powell Drive, where many victims have reported being robbed or assaulted.
Spike in Attacks Raises Alarm
The issue was recently raised in Parliament by Freedom Front Plus MP Liezl van der Merwe, who criticised the lack of visible policing in the area.
Her concerns reflect those of many Cape Town residents and visitors who say the situation is worsening.
Police Minister Firoz Cachalia responded by clarifying that while border police are stationed at the airport itself, responsibility for crimes outside the airport boundary falls under the Nyanga policing district, one of the country’s most crime-affected zones.
To combat the growing threat, Cachalia confirmed that both Nyanga SAPS and the City of Cape Town have been instructed to increase static patrols at known high-risk areas.
However, statistics tell a worrying story.
Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, a total of 42 incidents were reported around the airport alone.
High-Profile Incidents
Recent cases have drawn widespread public attention:
- A woman was seriously injured when a concrete block was thrown at her vehicle on the N2
- An American tourist was shot and robbed while travelling from the airport to Simon’s Town
- An elderly German couple was ambushed by armed robbers on Baden Powell Drive
Local councillor and FF Plus representative Emre Uygun condemned the violence, warning that it threatens both lives and tourism, a key part of the Cape Town economy.
“This isn’t just a local issue – it’s damaging our city’s global reputation,” said Uygun.
Part of a Broader Crime Trend
The spike around the airport mirrors a nationwide increase in vehicle-related crime.
According to SAPS crime statistics, 19 032 incidents of “theft out of or from motor vehicle” were reported nationally in Q1 2025 – averaging over 210 cases a day.
The Western Cape recorded 4 978 cases, just behind Gauteng’s 5 307.
Security Experts Advise Extra Caution
Vehicle security company Tracker has issued a warning to motorists and provided the acronym SMASH as a safety guide:
- Stay alert, especially at intersections
- Make use of protective window film
- Avoid leaving valuables visible
- Safe driving to avoid being cornered
- Help by reporting any suspicious activity
Authorities maintain that patrols are being stepped up, but urged travellers to remain cautious, especially when using routes to and from Cape Town International Airport.
“Be alert, plan your routes in advance, and avoid travelling alone at night where possible,” advised local law enforcement.
Do you feel safe using the road to and from Cape Town International Airport?
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