Cape Town motorists have been urged to stay alert after reports that dogs were allegedly used as bait in a suspected hijacking ploy along the R300 near Samora Machel.

The R300 dog hijacking warning follows a report that two dogs were found dead after a motorist spotted animals hanging from roadside structures and contacted the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa once it was safe to do so.

Dogs allegedly used to lure motorists on R300

According to the Daily Voice report, the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa said dogs were allegedly tied with wire around their necks and hung from concrete palisade walls near the busy route. The organisation warned that the scene could lure compassionate motorists into stopping, where they may then be targeted.

The report said a distressed motorist called AWS SA on Sunday, 26 April, after seeing a dog hanging from a wall behind Samora Machel and another animal trapped between concrete structures. Senior Inspector Sivuyile Kilwa and senior nurse Michelle Henning reportedly went to the scene, but both dogs had already died from injuries and suffocation.

AWS SA’s public contact page lists its base at Papkuilsvlei Road in Philippi and provides 082 601 1761 as its 24/7 medical emergency number.

R300 dog hijacking warning comes amid safety concerns

The R300 dog hijacking warning adds to wider safety concerns in the Samora Machel area. Earlier in April, Cape Argus/IOL reported that a Mitchells Plain family was hijacked near Samora Machel and Jakes Gerwel Drive. In that case, SAPS spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed that Samora Machel SAPS had registered a carjacking case for investigation.

However, no official SAPS statement was found confirming the dog-related incident or linking it to a specific hijacking case. For that reason, the alleged tactic should be treated as a warning under investigation rather than a confirmed crime pattern.

Animal welfare groups have also warned that South Africa faces a broader stray animal crisis. Humane World for Animals said in April 2026 that about 4.05 million cats and dogs in South Africa lack stable ownership or care, leaving many animals exposed to hunger, injury, neglect and abuse.

What motorists should do

Motorists who see a distressed animal in a dangerous roadside location should avoid stopping in an unsafe area. Instead, they should drive to a secure place and report the sighting.

SAPS says crime emergencies should be reported by calling 10111 or by going to the nearest police station. The South African Government also lists 08600 10111 for anonymous crime reports.

The R300 dog hijacking warning also highlights the need to report animal cruelty quickly. AWS SA can be contacted through its reception line on 021 692 2626, while animal medical emergencies can be reported on 082 601 1761.