Motorists and passengers are being urged to remain alert and avoid unnecessary cellphone use in public spaces following another brazen theft incident at a Midrand fuel station.

The warning comes after a video circulating on social media showed suspects travelling in a white vehicle allegedly snatching a cellphone from a motorist at the Engen Garage on New Road before speeding off.

The incident reflects a growing trend of opportunistic cellphone thefts targeting drivers and passengers at petrol stations, drive-thrus, and traffic intersections across Gauteng.

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Speaking to Midrand Reporter, Ria Sebetsa Security Service operations director Dillon Maduray confirmed that the company was aware of the incident.

“Unfortunately, incidents like these are becoming increasingly frequent at shopping centres, malls, roadways, and especially filling stations. In many cases, customers are distracted on their phones or are simply not as vigilant as they should be, making them easy targets for opportunistic criminals,” said Maduray.

He explained that many cellphone theft cases often go unreported because victims may not have insurance for their devices or believe the matter is too minor to pursue.

However, he stressed that failing to report these crimes creates a misleading perception that such incidents are not widespread.

“Most of these incidents are never reported to the local police station or shared on social media, which creates the impression that the problem is less severe than it actually is,” he said.

“Motorists and passengers are urged to remain vigilant at all times and to avoid using mobile devices unnecessarily while in public spaces. When approaching stop streets or traffic lights, devices should be kept out of sight and secured away from public view,” he added.

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He also called on filling stations to improve security measures to better protect customers. “Filling stations also need to strengthen and improve their security measures to provide customers with greater peace of mind and a stronger sense of safety while on site.”

He added that security providers are able to tailor solutions according to the specific risks and layouts of different fuel stations.

Motorists are further advised to keep valuables concealed, ensure vehicle windows remain closed when stationary, stay aware of their surroundings during fuel stops, and report criminal incidents to police without delay.

Previously, Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe also urged motorists to exercise extra caution when visiting the area after a reported increase in theft-related incidents.

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