EMPD tip of the week: Avoid falling victim to smash-and-grab

Criminals smash through a vehicle’s window to grab valuables kept in the vehicle.

March 25, 2024

Fanie Mthupha 1 minute read

Residents of Mackenzie Park claim incidents of smash-and-grabs have been on the increase since March and believe that it will continue to rise if the affected traffic lights are replaced with stop signs.

Smash-and-grab has become a more prevalent crime across the city, and it happens unexpectedly and quickly. Criminals smash through a vehicle’s window to grab valuables kept in the vehicle.

The EMPD is offering the following tips that may help reduce the chance of falling victim to this type of crime.
• Always pay attention to your surroundings when driving.
• In instances of driving in slow-moving traffic, always be on the lookout for pedestrians moving around your vehicle.
• Never leave any valuables on your seats. Put them in the boot.
• Always keep your doors locked and windows closed.
• Always keep enough space (two or three metres gap) between you and the car in front of you, to have enough room to escape.

Also Read: How to avoid smash and grab

Also Read: Smash-and-grab suspect dies after being shot by police in Wattville