How to be safe when CIT heists happen close by

Make your safety a priority.

This is the word from Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Services Group, on the topic of the public encountering a cash-in-transit (CIT) heist, which, he added, increased in the lead-up to the festive season.

“The number one priority if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being caught near a CIT robbery is to make your safety a priority.

“Remember, these syndicates are highly trained and dangerous, so caution has to be exercised,” Bartmann said.

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Here are tips to help you stay safe:

• When observing a cash-in-transit incident, try and put as much distance between your vehicle and the crime scene.

• Do not exit your vehicle as you could get caught in the crossfire. Try to vacate the area if possible

• Never approach perpetrators of a cash-in-transit as they are armed and dangerous. Always remember your safety first

• Do not place yourself in inevitable danger. Criminals may react irrationally when seeing you. Avoid any form of eye or physical contact

• If caught in the vicinity of a CIT robbery, make sure that you do not switch off your vehicle in case you need to escape the incident. Keep your engine running at all times.

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• Share videos that you have taken with the authorities rather than posting them on social media.

This could assist with the apprehension of the criminals. Posting on your social media channels which get shared broadly, may jeopardise the case.

• Also remember that while videos and photographs from your phone can be useful, they could put you at risk if the suspects see you filming at the time.

• Immediately notify the police. Contact SAPS when you find yourself in a CIT heist but, remember that it is always about your safety first. The SAPS contact number for emergencies is 10111.

“Should you be at a shopping centre and witness a cross-pavement heist near an ATM, the same advice applies.

“If you are not in your car, keep as much distance between yourself and the perpetrators as possible.

“Rather lie flat on the floor to avoid being caught in the crossfire if any shots are fired. Again, notify the authorities or centre management as quickly as possible,” Bartmann concluded.