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Cyclists in Cape Town are being hit hard by brazen skelms, especially along Woodstock’s notorious Lower Church Street bridge.

Sharief Peters, chairperson of Western Province Cycling and Cape Town Giants, reckons the City isn’t pulling up its socks to protect the cycling community.

Woodstock, a known hotspot, has become a dangerous stretch for cyclists, Peters warns. “Cyclists are becoming easy targets, especially those riding alone,” he explained.

He mentioned that in previous years, biking equipment was taken but that doesn’t seem to be the trend now as criminals are after what cyclists are carrying, such as cell phones and cash, he said.

Interestingly, Peters pointed out that most bicycles have VIN numbers, like cars, which makes them traceable. While bike theft is still a thing, it’s not happening at the rate it used to. The focus now is more on what’s in your pocket.

“We have [WhatsApp] club groups where messages are shared. We also request anyone to report any incidents,” Peters said.

Peters flagged the route from Paarden Eiland into Cape Town via the bridge as a major danger zone. With informal settlements popping up along the roadside, the area has become a hotspot for crime. Unfortunately, cyclists have little choice but to brave this stretch if they’re heading into the city, leaving them even more vulnerable.

“I think criminals know this. At times there is a police presence. Ultimately, we work on safety in numbers,” Peters explained.

Peters recounted a recent incident where a woman was robbed of her belongings just 30 metres away from her cycling group.

“She stopped for water and she could see the group. The guys robbed her politely. They said: ‘can you please give us your cellphone, and if you have any cash hand it over please’”.

Polite or not, the reality is grim. Another cyclist ended up in hospital after a robbery and assault, and even a hand cyclist wasn’t spared, Peters explained. According to Peters, one of the biggest challenges now is getting victims to report these incidents.

“I think it may be a fear of being targeted, as anyone can be looked up on social media. Only people who report the matters and make cases do so for insurance purposes,” Peters said.

Peters emphasised that the biggest hurdle is the lack of reporting, and that’s what’s needed to build the stats. Without those numbers, the police aren’t going to take these issues seriously, he said. Over the past few weeks, cyclists have reported around 10 incidents, Peters noted. He pointed out that the roads leading into Woodstock near the bridge now closed to cars, have become eerily quiet—creating the perfect conditions for criminals to carry on with their shenanigans unchecked.

Police have advised cyclists to be vigilant and ride in groups.

“We advised cyclists to operate or ride in groups of at least three or more and to be vigilant at all times, especially when riding the specific route. Report all suspicious activities and people to SAPS, immediately,” Western Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie said.

Cyclists are also urged to report attacks to the City of Cape Town’s Mobility Department so that they can move forward with safety and security plans.

“The PPA advises cyclists to avoid the area until the cycle lane has been cleaned up and restored. If the route is being used, which is not advisable at the moment, cyclists should cycle in large groups at all times,” Pedal Power Association (PPA) spokesperson and CEO Neil Robinson said.

[source:iol]