Two would-be robbers got more than they bargained for when they tried to rob an undercover metro police officer on the N2 near Cape Town on Thursday morning.

The plain-clothed cop had been stationed at the roadside in a bait car in a planned operation on the so-called N2 “hell run” between the Mew Way and R300 off-ramps.

One of the alleged robbers, armed with a knife and a toy gun, was arrested after the ill-conceived robbery attempt.

According to a statement released by the City of Cape Town, the operation involved stationing an officer in an unmarked car.

Shortly after setting the scene, two men approached the vehicle and attempted to rob the “stranded” woman.

This baiting tactic is but one of the more innovative approaches the Metro Police are employing to curb attacks along the N2, mayoral committee member for safety and security JP Smith said.

“We will run similar operations in future, but will change the modus operandi to keep the criminals guessing.

“Safety on the N2 is the responsibility of a number of role players including SAPS, the provincial government and the national roads agency.

“I am engaging with them on a continuous basis to ensure that we introduce more measures to make life difficult for these criminals.”

Smith warned motorists to be extra cautious, especially when using the N2 and R300 highways. News24