INCREASED security measures have been put in place on Devil's Peak after a scuffle involving three hikers and a knife-wielding criminal broke out at the weekend.
The three were above University Estate on Sunday when an unknown man followed them down the mountain, took out a knife and attempted to rob one of them.
The attacker fled after the hiker pepper-sprayed him in the face, said police spokesperson André Traut.
No one was injured in the attack.
“The Woodstock police want to warn hikers to always hike in groups on the mountain for safety purposes. Don't hike with expensive valuable items in your possession.
"If you fall prey to a robber, don't resist but do obey the instructions of your attacker. Always obtain as much visual detail as possible about the attacker for police investigation purposes,” said Traut.
Traut said a case of attempted robbery was opened for investigation and no one had been arrested.
One of the hikers took to social media and identified the would-be robber as a well-dressed individual wearing a K-Way jacket, blue jeans and sneakers.
“We were attacked by a knife-wielding, well-dressed foreign national on Devil's Peak, above University Estate, at about 12.35pm. After a long fight we came away unharmed with no personal belongings taken. The mountain SAPS and SANParks were so efficient, helpful and sympathetic,” read the post.
The hiker said it was a terrifying experience as the suspect used their dog as a distraction and came at full force with a hunter's knife.
“He must have been in distress after the event as we sprayed him with pepper spray. Irrespective, he was mighty strong and adamant to cause harm to us. Be careful out there,” the post read.
SANParks spokesperson Merle Collins said: “Table Mountain National Park and the SAPS are working together to apprehend the suspect. Security has been heightened in the area.”
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is requested to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Warren Smith, on 021 486 2840 at the Woodstock police station or on Crime Stop on 08600 1011.