Local SAPS is urging community members to report suspicious behaviour as fraud, robbery and hijacking cases continue to rise in Brakpan.

According to Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer, local police are experiencing an alarming increase in fraud cases despite sharing numerous alerts and tips on how to avoid falling prey to fraudsters.

“Fraudsters have noticed how people rely on and have found comfort in online banking and online purchases. They have also noticed that pensioners possess smartphones, and most of them can navigate online banking platforms.

“Brakpan SAPS is experiencing a high volume of online fraud cases, and would like to appeal to the public to be extremely careful and rather visit the bank in person than to comfortably give your hard-earned money away to criminals.

“Adults are urged to educate elderly family members about fraud tactics. Always remind the pensioners to never give away their PIN, their ID numbers, and any personal information to anyone, whether in person or over the phone,” said Buthelezi.

With regards to bank followings, Buthelezi explained that criminals are becoming advanced, and take their time to gather information about their targeted victim.

“Bank followers are very dangerous because they are following your every move, and you are not aware of it. Always take extra caution when visiting a bank, either to deposit or withdraw money.

“Entrepreneurs and individuals are requested to not go alone to the bank for large sums of money but rather go with two or three trusted people who will be your extra eyes. If the criminals notice that you are not alone, they will think twice about approaching you,” she said.

She warned that withdrawing large amounts of money from the ATM and walking around or shopping, attracts criminals.

“Do not be alone. Immediately after making a large withdrawal, leave before the criminals can get their hands on your money,” said Buthelezi.

It is also advised to decrease daily withdrawal amount limits to prevent criminals from stealing large amounts of money via banking applications and ATM withdrawals. Buthelezi stressed that hijackings and kidnappings are also on the rise at an alarming rate in Brakpan.

“The modus operandi is the same. The criminal points a firearm at the driver and passengers, forces them into the boot or back seat of the vehicle, and drives them to secluded areas,” said Buthelezi.

“The criminals then force the victims to open their banking applications and transfer money, and then drop the victims off at various locations.

Buthelezi advised drivers to always make sure they are aware of their surroundings.

“Whether during the day or night, always make sure as a driver that you can see the vehicle behind, in front and to the left and right of you. Never, as a driver, take any move on the road for granted because that might be your warning sign.

“Do not go to your house if you see or suspect any following. Always have emergency numbers on speed dial to immediately report any suspicious activity on the road,” she said.

Brakpan police share this information to ensure the community is well informed and can take appropriate action to respond to situations.

“This is part of the SAPS’ commitment to maintaining public safety, and the SAPS aims to provide timely information that can help prevent further harm, protect victims, and facilitate the investigation process,: explained Buthelezi.

“Alerting the community about crime trends is a critical component of SAPS’ role in crime prevention and public safety.”

Report criminal activities to Brakpan SAPS on 011 7444 111 or 071 675 6955.

Alternatively, call 08600 10111.

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