AS part of SAPS Pinetown’s efforts to combat crime, communications officer Jennifer Naidu said members have been working tirelessly to identify and address high crime zones and hotspots, under the guidance of station commander Brigadier LJ Matthysen.

One such area is the intersection of Josiah Gumede Street and Anderson Road, where heavy traffic congestion, exacerbated by the influx of taxis from Richmond, Josiah Gumede, and Kings roads, creates an opportunity for criminals to strike.

She said the area, surrounded by taxi ranks and busy roads, experiences gridlock traffic, making it an ideal spot for criminals to target unsuspecting victims.

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“Many drivers and passengers, unaware of the dangers, often leave their windows open, smoke, or use their phones while waiting for traffic to move.

“These distractions provide criminals with the perfect opportunity to strike. They use knives to intimidate passengers, who in turn distract the driver, while another criminal distracts the driver further, pulling at the keys, throwing them into the vehicle, and using the chaos to steal valuables such as phones, jewellery, laptops, and handbags.”

Naidu explained that the criminals’ tactics are well-rehearsed, allowing them to execute their plan with ease.

“To avoid detection, the criminals simply blend into the crowded taxi rank, selling their stolen goods to second-hand shops and market vendors.

As part of SAPS Pinetown’s zero-tolerance policy, Matthysen emphasises the importance of community involvement in combating crime.

He also urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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