The police in Carletonville are warning that vehicle owners must be vigilant for criminals.

Carletonville’s Social Crime Prevention Officer, Captain Plastiek van Vuuren, explains that hijackings and thefts are on the rise across the West Rand.

In our area, the Carletonville CBD is where vehicle thieves are most likely to strike.

Residents driving to our neighbouring town, Westonaria, must be particularly careful on Main Road.

In Randfontein, areas such as Greenhills and Toekomsrus are being targeted. Elsewhere in the West Rand, Krugersdorp, Kagiso Ext 6 and 8, and Homestead are danger areas.

Motorists are advised to always lock their doors and close their windows while driving. They must also avoid using their phones or doing anything else that might distract them in traffic.

Van Vuuren reminded drivers to always keep a safe following distance to avoid being easily boxed in and must be alert near intersections, shopping centres, and at their own driveways. Motorists are advised to have the area at the gate to their yard well-lit, and they have installed a reliable tracker in their vehicle.