Barrier tape around the FNB ATM’s at White River Square had residents both curious and worried as to the reason therefore on Saturday. It was, however, not an attempted ATM bombing as rumours had it, but an attempt to overpower the security guards and rob the safe.
According to local police communications officer WO Gugulethu Phiri, two security guards were stationed at the ATMs at around 04:00. When the one went on patrol, the other was overpowered by a gang of robbers, tied up and put in the guards’ changing room. They allegedly drugged the officer by forcing him to drink some kind of liquid before they tried breaking into the nearby safe. During their attempts, the security company was alerted and the suspects fled the scene. A case of common robbery was opened since the suspects only managed to steal the guard’s cellphone.
Residents and visitors should be more vigilant and on their guard over the festive season, as robbers target people more frequently as most have more cash than usual. Take care not to carry more money than needed, avoid going shopping with large handbags or leaving them or wallets visible in vehicles or unattended while at restaurants or shops.
CPF chairman and security expert Ockie Brits gave a few tips to people who were going on holiday:
• Don’t pack your vehicle or trailer where everyone can see it, as this is a great indicator that your house will likely be empty for a period of time.
• Remember to let your security company know that you’ll be away and give them a contact number of a friend or neighbour with access to the house in case of an emergency.
• Leave an extra set of keys with friends, family or trusted neighbours. Get them to look after your pets and open and close curtains and switch lights on and off to make it look like the residents are still at home.
• If possible, let your trustworthy gardener still come in to work and continue with his normal tasks. This will also create the illusion that you’re still at home and is an extra pair of eyes and ears to notify your emergency contact in case any problems arise or suspicious persons are lurking around.
• If you’ll be away for more than a few days, ensure that someone picks up your post and removes any junk mail before you’re left with a pile of soggy papers at the gate.
