Nissan 1400 bakkies have become a target for a vehicle theft syndicate between Brakpan and Springs, says the Secure Tech Security operations manager Charl Bronkhorst.

Bronkhorst shared that six bakkies were reported stolen in the last month, with one stolen on October 3. He added that at least two bakkies are stolen nearly every week.

He said one reason these vehicles are targeted is that their trackers can be removed effortlessly.

“Nearly 95% of the stolen bakkies reported have no tracking system, which makes it easy for the criminals,” he said.

He added that when the crime occurs, the thieves tend to poison the dogs on the property to make sure that they don’t alert the owners. Bronkhorst highlighted that the thieves strike in the early morning hours between 01:00 and 04:00.

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As a company, he said some of the things they can do are to increase patrollers in the areas affected, including some areas in Springs like Strubenvale, Casseldale and Brakpan North.

“We can also educate the public about different security measures, including using alarms and having cameras that face the gate, which will help us identify the criminals,” said Bronkhorst.

He believes it is organised crime syndicates. He said the information they received, indicates the vehicles were located in Kwa-Thema.

He said they work with SAPS in the areas, which also helps verify the information received. Bronkhorst concluded by urging vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are properly secured.

“Always lock your vehicle wherever you are. Have the premises secured with alarms and cameras. Nowadays, it is easy to remove a tracker. For extra protection, people should also use an old-fashioned steering lock, as it is much more difficult to remove.”

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