North Beach attempted murder accused appears in court
Durban police and security teams have observed a concerning trend of increased cellphone theft around the city, where suspects in vehicles or on foot target unsuspecting individuals by grabbing their cellphones, and making a swift getaway.
AN attempted murder and phone-grabbing suspect remains in custody after a brief appearance at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Sergeant Zanele Khomo, spokesperson of SAPS Durban Central, confirmed the incident and said that the suspect remained at Westville Prison.
“On Thursday, February 20 at about 10:00, Durban Central Crime Prevention members arrested one suspect aged 31 for attempted murder. Earlier the complainant, aged 32, was at the corner of KE Masinga and Masabalala Yengwa streets, on her way to Suncoast Casino. An unknown male approached her and demanded her cellphone. The complainant informed him that she did not have a cellphone with her. The suspect then stabbed her in the stomach with a pair of scissors, and took her cellphone. The complainant noticed a police vehicle and flagged it. She was taken to a local hospital for medical attention, in a stable condition,” Khomo said.
Police swiftly gave chase and the suspect was apprehended. He was reportedly found in possession of the complainant’s phone.
Also read: Point cellphone thief arrested while boarding taxi
North Beach Patrol Unit’s CPF released a warning to residents over the weekend regarding an escalation of cellphone-grabbing incidents in the area.
“We urge the residents to be alert. There has been a surge in cellphone grabbing incidents in our area. To minimise the risk please avoid holding phones in your hand or exposing them from pockets / bags. Also, be cautious of surroundings, especially in crowded areas and most importantly, report suspicious activity immediately to the SAPS, BPU CPF and local security companies,” highlighted Mahomed Essa, chairperson of BPU CPF in North Beach
Blue Security shared some tips on how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings when conversing or using your cellphone in restaurants and public areas.
• Avoid displaying your cellphone or other valuable items openly, which can attract unwanted attention.
• Walk in well-lit areas and consider using safer routes when possible.
• If suspicious vehicles or individuals are approaching, quickly move to a more populated and well-lit area.
• Keep a firm grip on your cellphone, and be careful when using it in public.
• Report any suspicious activity or incidents to the authorities or private security companies like Blue Security.
• By raising awareness and encouraging smarter proactive measures criminals can be deterred.
Communities are urged to remain vigilant and take proactive safety measures to help reduce the risk of becoming a cellphone snatching victim.
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