SEBENZA SAPS is advising people to be on high alert for crime, particularly during the festive season as crime tends to rife this time of the year.
Spokesperson Sgt Sharon Tsotsotso said people must be aware not to make themselves targets of crime in December when they purchase new appliances for their homes.
She said people often expose themselves to criminals when they throw away boxes of the new items near their gates.
“You are showing criminals that you have what they want,” Tsotsotso said.
She said people must also avoid withdrawing a lot of money from ATMs and should make electronic transactions or payments to avoid being robbed.
Tsotsotso said those who will be away during Christmas holidays should have their houses watched by others rather than leaving them unattended.
“Stop newspaper and milk deliveries. People must also ensure that they inform security companies to watch their properties when they are away,” she said.
She said it is important for young boys and girls to also stay alert and know their surroundings.
She said they must be aware about human trafficking. “They must not trust people they do not know,” Tsotsotso added.
She said the most common crimes many people often fall victim to, are: armed robbery, car theft and hijacking, house robbery, domestic violence and child abuse.
