Midrand is facing a troubling surge in robberies and theft, with businesses and residents increasingly falling prey to organised criminal activity across the precinct.

Police warn that no sector appears immune to the growing wave of crime. According to Midrand police Sergeant Thabiso Angelina Kutu, suspects are striking in the early hours of the morning, particularly between midnight and 04:00.

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“We are having problems with business robberies recently, including residential properties where suspects target solar panels, batteries, air conditioning, and computers. It is on the rise in all Midrand sectors, not just certain areas,” said Kutu.

Police have recorded approximately five recent cases believed to be linked to the same syndicate. The theft of solar panels and backup power equipment has become especially prevalent amid ongoing energy challenges that have seen many businesses invest in alternative power solutions.

In addition to business break-ins, police are also concerned about an increase in theft out of motor vehicles, particularly at shopping centres and malls.

Residents are urged to manually check that their vehicles are locked, avoid leaving valuables such as laptops visible inside cars, properly close all windows, and stay alert to their surroundings when driving.

Kutu warned motorists about a recurring scam in which criminals signal to drivers that their tyres are flat in order to lure them into stopping. “People must learn to drive away… Many modern vehicles now show tyre pressure warnings on the dashboard. Do not stop in unsafe areas,” she cautioned.

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Delivery trucks have also become prime targets, with recent daytime robberies reported along the N1 North and N1 South freeway routes.

Moreover, security officers at residential estates and business premises are advised not to hastily open gates to suspicious vehicles. Selowa said criminals often arrive with multiple occupants and may overpower property owners before reinforcements arrive.

In some incidents, suspects allegedly hold people available at the premises as hostages while accomplices arrive in additional vehicles to load stolen goods. “If a vehicle looks suspicious, security should contact armed response, press the panic button, or call police before opening,” she said.

Although no arrests have been made yet, police are reportedly searching for a suspected vehicle believed to be a Toyota Corolla linked to the crimes, particularly the theft of solar panels.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact the Midrand Police Station at 011 347 1600.

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