South African Transport Minister and Protection Team Thwart Hijacking Attempt on N3 Highway - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

South African Transport Minister and Protection Team Thwart Hijacking Attempt on N3 Highway

4 mins read
s o

South African Transport Minister, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, and her protection team were involved in a hijacking attempt on the N3 highway. Despite the criminals using spikes to puncture the vehicle’s tyres, the Minister and her team were unharmed. The incident highlights the ongoing issues of crime and insecurity in South Africa and the need for effective security measures for both high-ranking officials and the general public. The nation must work towards overcoming these challenges and building a safer, more prosperous future for all its citizens.

What happened to South African Transport Minister on N3 highway?

South African Transport Minister, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, and her protection team experienced a hijacking attempt on the N3 highway between Vosloorus and Heidelberg. The criminals used spikes to puncture the vehicle’s tyres, but fortunately, the Minister and her team were unharmed. The incident highlights the pressing issues of crime and insecurity in South Africa.

A Close Call for Minister Chikunga

In the early morning hours of Monday, South African Transport Minister, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, and her protection team experienced a terrifying ordeal on the N3 highway between Vosloorus and Heidelberg. The situation involved a hijacking attempt, which, fortunately, left the Minister and her team unharmed.

The would-be hijackers employed a devious method to stop the Minister’s car. They used spikes to puncture the vehicle’s tyres, effectively immobilizing it and giving the criminals a chance to rob the car’s passengers. Despite this frightening encounter, Minister Chikunga remains steadfast in her dedication to her government duties. In the aftermath, she has been met with an outpouring of support from fellow government officials and the people of South Africa, demonstrating the nation’s resilience and unity in denouncing criminal activities while striving for a safer environment.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is currently leading the investigation into the incident. While information is limited since the investigation is still ongoing, the hijacking attempt brings attention to the pressing issues of crime and insecurity that persist in South Africa.

Security Concerns on the N3 Highway

The N3 highway, where the incident took place, is a vital route for trade and travel, linking Johannesburg and Durban. It is not only crucial for the country’s economic development but also serves as a lifeline for countless commuters who depend on it daily. As such, this occurrence highlights the broader implications of crime on the nation’s infrastructure and the potential consequences it may have on economic growth and social well-being.

Hijacking remains an ongoing problem in South Africa, with criminals adopting increasingly sophisticated tactics to prey on unsuspecting motorists. The incident involving Minister Chikunga serves as a stark warning that no one, regardless of their status, is safe from the threat of crime. It emphasizes the need for effective security measures for both high-ranking officials and the general public.

In recent years, the government, law enforcement agencies, and private sector have made a joint effort to address hijacking and other forms of crime. Through collaborative initiatives, they strive to improve public safety and cultivate a sense of security for South Africans. One such initiative is the Integrated National Crime Prevention Strategy, which aims to tackle the root causes of crime and violence through a comprehensive approach.

Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead

As the investigation into the hijacking attempt on Minister Chikunga’s convoy continues, the unfortunate event serves as a catalyst for refocusing on the pressing issue of crime in South Africa. It also highlights the importance of a united effort by the government, private sector, and civil society in developing and implementing effective strategies to combat crime and ensure the safety of all citizens.

Moreover, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment exhibited by the SAPS protection team responsible for guarding high-ranking officials. Their unwavering dedication to their duty allowed Minister Chikunga to walk away from the ordeal unscathed, ensuring that she can continue serving the people of South Africa.

The importance of vigilance and collaboration among all sectors of society cannot be overstated. The hijacking attempt on Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga’s life serves as a stark reminder of the constant threat of crime and violence in South Africa. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the nation and the urgency with which solutions must be implemented to create a safer, more secure environment for all citizens.

As the investigation moves forward, it is hoped that the incident will encourage greater public awareness and involvement in addressing crime and insecurity in South Africa. Through collaboration and concerted efforts by all stakeholders, the nation can work towards overcoming these challenges and building a safer, more prosperous future for all its citizens.

1. What happened to South African Transport Minister on N3 highway?

South African Transport Minister, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga, and her protection team experienced a hijacking attempt on the N3 highway between Vosloorus and Heidelberg. The criminals used spikes to puncture the vehicle’s tyres, but fortunately, the Minister and her team were unharmed.

2. What is the N3 highway?

The N3 highway is a vital route for trade and travel, linking Johannesburg and Durban. It is not only crucial for the country’s economic development but also serves as a lifeline for countless commuters who depend on it daily.

3. What are the security concerns on the N3 highway?

Hijacking remains an ongoing problem in South Africa, with criminals adopting increasingly sophisticated tactics to prey on unsuspecting motorists. This occurrence highlights the broader implications of crime on the nation’s infrastructure and the potential consequences it may have on economic growth and social well-being.

4. How is the South African government addressing the issue of crime?

In recent years, the government, law enforcement agencies, and private sector have made a joint effort to address hijacking and other forms of crime. Through collaborative initiatives, they strive to improve public safety and cultivate a sense of security for South Africans. One such initiative is the Integrated National Crime Prevention Strategy, which aims to tackle the root causes of crime and violence through a comprehensive approach.

5. What does the hijacking attempt on Minister Chikunga’s convoy emphasize?

The incident involving Minister Chikunga serves as a stark warning that no one, regardless of their status, is safe from the threat of crime. It emphasizes the need for effective security measures for both high-ranking officials and the general public.

6. What is the role of SAPS protection team responsible for guarding high-ranking officials?

The incident serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment exhibited by the SAPS protection team responsible for guarding high-ranking officials. Their unwavering dedication to their duty allowed Minister Chikunga to walk away from the ordeal unscathed, ensuring that she can continue serving the people of South Africa.

7. What lessons can be learned from the hijacking attempt on Minister Chikunga’s convoy?

The unfortunate event serves as a catalyst for refocusing on the pressing issue of crime in South Africa. It highlights the importance of a united effort by the government, private sector, and civil society in developing and implementing effective strategies to combat crime and ensure the safety of all citizens.

8. What is the hope for the future of South Africa in terms of crime and insecurity?

Through collaboration and concerted efforts by all stakeholders, the nation can work towards overcoming these challenges and building a safer, more prosperous future for all its citizens.

Previous Story

The Unexpected Delay in Submitting the Atlas of Results to Parliament

Next Story

Limpopo’s Healthcare Advancements: A Significant Leap in Emergency Medical Services

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.