Bakkies are common targets for theft
Crime trends were discussed at the monthly SAPS stakeholders’ meeting.
The crime overview given at the Brakpan SAPS monthly stakeholders’ meeting noted that vehicle theft is a problem crime. The meeting was held at Thabong Wedding and Conference Venue on April 24.
It was reported that the most common spots where these vehicles get stolen are the Brakpan CBD and schools during sporting events.
The Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner and Ford Ranger bakkies are the most commonly targeted. Compared with this time last year, vehicle theft cases increased by 14.
Another problem crime is theft from motor vehicles, happening most frequently at shopping centres.
Tools, electronics and spare wheels frequently get stolen from vehicles parked at shopping centres.
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The SAPS urges the public not to leave valuables in plain sight in their cars, especially tools on the backs of bakkies in the open.
The local police also urge schools to contact the CPF, security companies and the SAPS to arrange patrols at school events to curb this crime.
“If the schools collaborate with us and give us their event schedules, we can help monitor things to prevent further thefts,” said Tinus Jordaan, the Brakpan CPF chairperson.
Social media fraud remains a primary concern, with two or three cases reported daily.
The SAPS remind the public not to pay anyone money for a service or product advertised on social media until that product or service is delivered.
“If something looks too good to be true, or if something looks like a bargain, it is most likely a scam. You will not receive discounted electricity units or free airtime or data by messaging a stranger from a Facebook post,” said the Brakpan station commander, Brigadier Fredl Jonck.
There is also a rising trend in stealing gate motors and laser beams from homes. The targeted areas seem to be Brenthurst and the Brakpan CBD.
Representatives from the security companies present recommended connecting these devices to your home security system so that alarms will go off when someone tampers with them.
House burglaries spiked in Leachville and Anzac and seem to be moving to Sunair Park. There were also three murders reported in April.
