Some sound advice from Tembisa SAPS: be prepared for criminals hard at work

With the festive season in full swing, criminals are hard at work.

This is according Ekurhuleni District Zone One’s Tembisa police spokesperson, Capt Ralidzhivha Manyadza, during an exclusive interview with The Tembisan.

He warned that many people weren’t aware of these criminal activities happening around this time of the year and therefore felt it was important to help share information and educate the general public.

“It is true. Many people tend to be ignorant, especially during the festive holidays, and this is the only time they are most vulnerable to criminals without even knowing it. There are a number of cases we would like to urge the public to look out for or guard against,” said Manyadza.

Stokvels

“It is a common and known fact that different stokvels get to share their dividends during this time of the year. And without knowing or being ignorant, they share and carry large sums of money with them, which leaves them in serious danger,” said Manyadza.

“We want to appeal to members of the community, especially stokvel members, to be very careful when sharing their money. We would like to advise

that all stokvels should rather consider using direct bank deposits when sharing their dividends instead of carrying large sums of cash,” he said.

He argued that many people or stokvels have fallen victim to being followed and robbed after withdrawing their stokvel money from the bank.

Shopping centres

Manyadza warned that since many people will be doing a lot of shopping during the festive, it’s better to be always safe and cautious.

“There are a number of criminals targeting shopping malls because they know shoppers are sometimes ignorant and relaxed when shopping. Be vigilant and always ensure that you do not leave children behind or in the car. So many things can happen to your children when left alone in the car while you are busy shopping. If you are driving, make sure that your vehicle is properly locked and double check by trying to open it yourself,” he said.

False prophets

“Always remember that when you left your house, you didn’t say you were going to a prophet. You were either going to work or just going shopping. So whenever you are approached by these prophets in the streets, just remind yourself why you left home. And if you need a prophet or sangoma, I am sure you know where their offices are.

“These false prophets tend to stop unsuspecting people in the streets and start prophesising on them. Be warned, they are not the real deal. They simply want to rob you of your valuables. In most cases victims are instructed to take their laptops and wallets out so they can remove the curse,” said Manyadza.

Illegal gambling

“Please be vigilant against people on trains and in malls who go around promising unsuspecting people of winning money through their cards or spin-a-bottle games. They even let somebody play just to tempt people. Please note that the one who will be playing and winning is one of them. Look after that hard-earned money. Do not lose it like that,” said Manyadza.

“And for those who drink, be mindful of the Gauteng Liquor Act 2/2003 section 127(c), which states that no person is permitted to be under the influence of alcohol or be drinking near any public place, including roads, streets, parks, markets, shops, warehouses or public petrol stations. No person may consume, brew or sell any alcohol in public places. If you are found, you will be arrested and liable for a fine,” said Manyadza.

Vacations

Manyadza advised that if you are planning a holiday away, just make sure that you leave someone you trust to look after your house and belongings.

“Remember, criminals are aware that many people or house owners will probably go on holiday and this is their one chance to break into your home and steal everything you have been working so hard for. Never leave your house unattended because the criminals are watching it. Also, inform your neighbours and let them know that you will be going away on vacation so they can assist in looking out for any suspicious activities while you are away,” said Manyadza.

Missing persons

“Many people, especially children, are snatched during this time of the year because parents let them play in the parks or streets without supervision until late. Just remember that there are no waiting periods to report a missing person. If you suspect that someone is missing, immediately go to your nearest police station and report it so the police can start looking and working on that case,” he advised.