Burgersfort SAPS issue safety tips to the public for the festive season.
“Shoppers must be alert when using ATMs, they should not trust strangers or even security officers. If you don’t know how to use the machine, withdraw your money at the bank or bring someone from home along to help you."
BURGERSFORT – With the festive season fast approaching, the local SAPS issued a stern warning to shoppers about the alleged crimes in and around the town.
The station alerted locals about the tactics used by criminals to rob them of their hard-earned money.
Station commander Col Rebecca Malatji and her team revealed that theft at ATMs was a growing trend in Tubatse.
“Shoppers must be alert when using ATMs, they should not trust strangers or even security officers. If you don’t know how to use the machine, withdraw your money at the bank or bring someone from home along to help you.”
They also said that there was a gang which was driving around town pretending to be police officers, and Malatji encouraged shoppers to stop seeking help from these so-called cops.
“Never allow those criminals to search your bags and don’t show them your cash. If they need to search you, tell them to transport you to the nearest police station with a marked vehicle. You must only be searched in a community service centre. Never enter an unmarked vehicle with them,” she said.
Motorists driving cars with immobilizing devices were also urged to ensure their vehicles were properly locked after parking them. “There is a group that tampers with the immobilisers – they prevent the cars from locking by pressing their own devices and then steal valuables like laptops, cellphones, airtime and cash.” The Burgersfort SAPS vowed to combat crime in the area, and pleaded with community members to blow the whistle on criminal activities. Anyone who has information regarding any of the above crimes can contact the station on 013-231-0200.
