Smash and grab on the rise in Pretoria suburbs

Some Pretoria suburbs have been plagued by the crime of theft out of the motor vehicle, smash-and-grabs and common robberies, Rekord East reports.

Pretoria Central police spokesperson Captain Augustinah Selepe said intensified operations were being conducted in identified hot spots including in Pretoria Central, Pretoria West, Hercules and Wonderboompoort.

She said criminals normally targeted busy streets, major roads and shopping malls and smashed the windows of the vehicle or open the car door, loot the contents before making off.

“Smash-and-grab criminals are targeting female drivers with handbags with valuables in front and back seats of the car. These criminal further target cars with open windows or drivers speaking on their mobile phones.”

She said theft out of a motor vehicle was mostly reported in areas where there was unattended or no secure parking.

“Pretoria Central police are taking several steps to reduce smash and grabs and theft out of the motor vehicle. It is up to the motorists to avoid becoming a victim,” Selepe said.

She urged motorists to always park in secure spots.

“More people are visiting the CBD to attend social areas such as (taverns, pubs, parks and night clubs) make sure you carry what is necessary to be used. Park your car in protected parking and a well-lit area. Men need be vigilant of easy ladies at the night clubs, they are not out there seeking for entertainment or love, but rather to drug you, rob you of all valuables and take off with your car, said Selepe.”

Drivers were warned to be vigilant and to note areas around:

* Eeufees Fountains Valley

* Nelson Mandela Drive

* Kgosi Mampuru, Bosman Street towards Bosman railway station

* Eskia Mphahlele Drive connecting to Boom Street

* Bloed and Struben streets

* Nana Sita Street

* Lilian Ngoyi Street

* Madiba Street

* Johannes Ramokhoase Street

* Medforum hospital vicinity

Steve Biko academy hospital

* Sammy Marks Square

* Church Square

“Police have been tracking an increase in theft out of motor vehicle including smash and grab around these areas.”

Police have offered the following tips to motorists:

– Try not to give criminals any bait that might attract them.

– Keep car doors locked especially in congested areas and taxi ranks or where the traffic is slow-moving.

– Don’t use your cell phone or any gadget when walking in the streets, it is easy to be grabbed by criminals.

– Beware of people standing at traffic lights, don’t open your car windows for pamphlets and don’t buy from the vendors either.