Double-cab bakkie owners urged to remain vigilant

The owners of double-cab bakkies are urged to be vigilant when visiting shopping centres, following a spike in the theft of these vehicles reported by a security service provider.

“There has been an increase in the theft of white double-cab bakkies in Ekurhuleni and vehicles are targeted at shopping centres, homes and even hijacked while driving,” said Melisande Barnard, community development manager of Fidelity ADT.

Barnard said nine cases had been reported in the past month, which included one in Elsburg, one in Boksburg, three in Benoni and four in Alberton. The majority of incidents take place during the day and seem well planned.

“We suspect these vehicles are used by cross-border crime syndicates. White vehicles are easy to respray and cars are often then resold with false papers or stripped for parts,” said Barnard.

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“Keep an eye out for any vehicles that may be following you and if in doubt, drive to your nearest police station or security-provider guardhouse.”

Safety tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings. This applies to any public parking areas or even if you park on the road, outside a property.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately.
• Do not leave valuables in an unattended vehicle.
• Never push the remote locking device while walking away from the vehicle.
• Check that the vehicle is locked by testing the door before you walk away.
• Park your vehicle inside your perimeter security if possible.

Barnard also advised motorists to remain vigilant and calm.

“Criminals depend on their targets being distracted. It is when people aren’t paying attention that they become easy targets for criminal activities. Trust your instincts and call for help if you feel unsafe or unsure.”

Contact the newsroom by emailing: Marietta Lombard (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za,  or (Journalists) Busi Vilakazi busiv@caxton.co.za , and Lebogang Sekgwama lebogangs@caxton.co.za.