Cape Town traffic officers have been praised after stopping two separate crimes on the N2 corridor earlier this month. The incidents happened on 10 and 11 March 2026 and involved a smash-and-grab attempt and a handbag robbery.

The City’s Traffic Services Highway Deployment Ghost Units were involved in both cases. According to reports, the operations showed how traffic officers are doing more than managing congestion and road safety. They are also stepping into active crime-fighting roles on some of the city’s busiest routes.

Smash-and-Grab Suspect aArrested Near Jakes Gerwel Drive

The first incident happened during the morning peak on 10 March at the N2 and Jakes Gerwel Drive intersection. Mayoral committee member for Safety and Security JP Smith said a vehicle’s side window was smashed, but nothing was taken because officers responded quickly.

A suspect was arrested almost immediately after the incident. He was then handed over to the South African Police Service for further investigation. The case was registered at Athlone Police Station.

Handbag Robbery Foiled

A day later, on 11 March at about 3:10pm, an officer in an unmarked vehicle stopped a car that did not have a front number plate. During that stop, the officer noticed an elderly woman chasing two men. One of them was carrying a handbag believed to belong to the victim.

The suspects ran off on foot after the officer tried to intervene using blue lights and a siren. With help from SAPS, both suspects were chased down and arrested a short distance away. When they were brought back to the woman, it was confirmed that her handbag had been stolen along with SASSA money and three cellphones. The property was recovered.

City Urges Motorists to Stay Alert

Smith said one of the suspects had been arrested before for a similar offence. He also warned that motorists remain easy targets when valuables are left in sight or when drivers use phones in traffic.

The City has commended the officers for their alertness and quick action. For commuters using the N2, the message is simple: stay aware, lock away valuables and do not make yourself a target.