The News recently published the alarming story of a 19-year-old woman who had been stalked at a local shopping centre. A number of women who had similar experiences have since come forward.

Although local police said there was not much they could do unless a crime had been committed, Captain Solomon Sibiya advised those who believe they are being stalked to report it to the nearest security officer. He said anyone who felt threatened should report it to the police.

Also read: Young woman ‘stalked’ by stranger warns others

The News checked in with specialist investigator and owner of Specialised Security Services, Mike Bolhuis who revealed that stalkers were active in many areas. He further encouraged the public to report all crime to the police, gave tips for being safe, what to do when you notice you are being stalked, and how to tell if you actually are being stalked.

Mike Bolhuis

The News checked in with specialist investigator and owner of Specialised Security Services, Mike Bolhuis who said stalkers are active across the country.

Their hunting grounds are any large social gathering space, places where there are lots of feet, big parking areas, loads of shops and entertainment.”

When someone takes the time to drive to a police station and the police receive the complaint, especially from vulnerable groups such as women, children and the elderly, an incident report has to be compiled. This needs to be put on record for the police to see if there is a trend.

The best way to fight these crimes is with visible policing, he said, and added that it is our democratic and constitutional right to expect the police to keep us safe.

“When you receive a second complaint about the same thing you can see a trend developing. One out of 20 people actually complain to police.”

As specialist investigators they encourage the public to report all crime to the police. Victims should speak to the media, and they are welcome to send an email to Bolhuis’ team.

This accompanied by visible policing will contribute to these people being identified and stopped.”

He said opportunistic criminal are usually the ones who are active at malls – the Peeping Toms, pickpockets, kidnappers and robbers.

“They use jamming devices to jam your car’s locking system and steal your valuables when you leave. They wait until you load your groceries into your car to grab you and your car, or they grab you before you get in the car, or rob you of your jewellery.”

Bolhuis’ tips for being safe:
• Don’t wear your most expensive jewellery and look your best when you go shopping. Don’t draw attention to yourself.
• As young girls want to look good when they go to the mall – it is their right – they should take a friend with them or go in a group.
• Keep a positive paranoia, keep an eye out, avoid confrontation and don’t draw attention.
• Don’t ask just anyone to help you. Carry your own bags, push your own trolley.
• If something feels off, don’t provoke the person but be firm. You must appear unapproachable.
• Park close to a safe entrance where you know there are many car guards.

Bolhuis said although these incidents do happen inside the mall, many crimes are committed in the parking lot.

When you notice you are being stalked:

The moment you see you are being followed, stop and turn your cell phone toward the suspected stalker. Start taking videos, walk to the closest shop and make the security guard a witness. Then phone the police immediately; call 10111 if you have to.

“Then find the fastest safest way to your car, drive to the police station and lodge a complaint. Tell them this person was following you, give them the photos and tell them where it happened.”

How do you know that you are being stalked:

“When someone has been following you for 100m to 200m he does not want to ask you a question.”

Normal communication entails walking up to someone and speaking to the person directly – not stalking them.

It is freaky, creepy and illegal.”

Considering the crime rates in our country, women become agitated if they notice someone behind them even only for ten metres. He advised women to be ‘positively paranoid’ and if something like this happens to make sure they report the incident.