Smash-and-grab crimes rise
The police warned motorists to remain vigilant when stuck in traffic.
Captain Nomsa Sekele, the spokesperson for the Benoni Police Station, warned of an increase in the number of smash-and-grab cases reported.
According to her, intersections throughout the CBD and on Snake Road up to Rangeview Road were identified as hotspots.
“Criminals are loitering near intersections and even walking among the vehicles, looking for an opportunity to strike.
“We have noted that load-shedding, which subsequently leads to traffic congestion, is a major contributing factor to the increase in incidents.”
The police believe frustrations caused by negotiating heavy traffic might distract motorists from noticing suspicious persons approaching their vehicles.
“We urge motorists to ensure all valuables are out of sight and, where possible, to lock items such as handbags, wallets and laptops in the boot,” Sekele said.
“When there is nothing of value for would-be criminals to steal, you might not fall victim to these crimes.”
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