Watch: CCTV captures 2-minute Nissan Navara theft at Alberton shopping centre
Police are investigating after social media footage showed a suspect driving off in a stolen bakkie at a mall in the south-east of Johannesburg.
Alberton police are investigating the theft of a charcoal Nissan Navara from the Mall at Newmarket parking area this week in an incident that unfolded in about two minutes.
Police confirmed a vehicle theft case was opened after CCTV footage circulating on social media showed a suspect driving off in the bakkie with a Gauteng numberplate, reports Alberton Record.
The footage appears to show the suspects using a black Hyundai Staria with tinted windows during the theft.
Watch the video here:
@albertonrecord Police have confirmed a vehicle theft case has been opened after CCTV footage circulating on social media showed a suspect driving off in a charcoal Nissan Navara. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Swift operation captured on camera
The footage begins with both vehicles already parked next to each other in the parking area.
A suspect is then seen getting out of the black Hyundai Staria and entering the Nissan Navara without any visible struggle.
The Hyundai Staria drives away first, with the Nissan Navara following moments later.
Centre management responds
Mall at Newmarket confirmed that it is aware of the footage circulating online but said it could not comment on the specific circumstances while the investigation continues.
“The matter is currently being investigated. To avoid compromising the integrity of the investigation, the centre cannot confirm or comment on the specific circumstances surrounding the footage or the alleged incident at this stage.”
The mall said the safety and security of shoppers, tenants, staff and visitors remains a priority.
“The centre takes all security-related matters seriously and will continue to follow the appropriate processes in dealing with any reported incidents.”
The mall also encouraged shoppers to report suspicious behaviour or security concerns to centre management or the 24-hour security control room on 011 907 1000.
Police confirm investigation
Ekurhuleni North SAPS spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela confirmed that police are investigating a case of motor vehicle theft.
“We confirm that the police are investigating a case of theft of a motor vehicle regarding the matter.”
Although the exact date of the incident could not be established, police confirmed that the incident happened earlier this week.
Sekgobela said no arrests have been made and appealed to anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to come forward.
She also urged motorists to avoid parking in secluded areas and to remain on high alert as vehicle theft syndicates continue to target unsuspecting victims.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Alberton SAPS on 011 861 6821.
Tips to protect your vehicle
While police continue with the investigation, motorists can reduce the risk of vehicle theft by:
- Parking in well-lit areas close to entrances where possible
- Locking doors and closing all windows before leaving the vehicle
- Avoiding leaving valuables in plain sight
- Remaining alert to suspicious vehicles or people lingering in parking areas
- Reporting suspicious activity immediately to mall security or Alberton SAPS
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