SAPS warns community of scams

As part of this Christmas and New Year message, Brig David Mbongeni Ngcobo, the station commander of the Ivory Park SAPS, is calling on the local community to assist the police in every legal way possible to ensure that this area has a crime-free festive season.

As a first step, Ngcobo encourages to the community to join the local crime-fighting structures, including the newly selected community policing forum and local community structures, as this will enable them to keep abreast with what is going on regarding crime and policing matters in their areas.

He said even those who are not part of any crime-fighting structure can play a role by simply being the eyes and ears of the police, and to report crime as and when they witness it. This can be done anonymously.

“From the police’s side, we want to assure you as the community, our most important stakeholder, that majority of the officers will be out on the street of your areas, striving to ensure that every resident is and feels safe at all times. Please work with them,” said Ngcobo.

“Let us be aware of our surroundings at all times in order to avoid falling victim to scams, bank followings and common robberies. Those who drink liquor must do so at safe places, preferably their homes, and they should not under any circumstances drink and drive,” he added.

“Furthermore, we wish to remind those who will be taking long trips to different destinations in South Africa and abroad to first ensure that their properties are safe. Please drive safely and arrive alive,” concluded Ngcobo.

Ekurhuleni senior media officer Nqobile Brian Mchunu warned the general public about scams in social gatherings during this festive seasons.

Mchunu said this is a special announcement because criminals are getting smarter and sly at weddings or public gatherings whereby they will meet the MC to make an announcement of a particular car with a registration number that is yours blocking them from getting out.

“While you go out to move your car, some guys are waiting outside for you with a gun. They know you have the keys of your car. You are then ordered to drive the car out of the area along with them holding you up at gunpoint,” said Mchunu.

Mchunu added that when your vehicle registration number is being called out at a social function, take your time before going out and do not go out alone.

“Don’t go directly to where the car is parked, confirm from a distance if you are truly blocking another car. Make sure there is a driver in the blocked car already before you go.

“Watch your surroundings carefully before approaching the vehicle. Proceed with caution at all times. Please share this information with other car owners or even if u don’t own a car you can save a lot of people’s lives or belongings. #saferfestiveseason,” said Mchunu.