Car thieves strike at Ballito Junction

After meeting a friend for coffee at the Ballito Junction on Wednesday afternoon, Ballito resident Karin van Rooyen returned to the underground parking lot only to discover that her vehicle was gone.

Van Rooyen’s white Toyota Avanza was stolen in broad daylight.

According to Van Rooyen, the thieves drove out of the parking lot at around 12.30pm, while tailing the getaway vehicle on level four.

Tailing the other car would allow them both to exit the boom gate together.

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Umhlali SAPS captain Vinny Pillay confirmed that a case had been opened.

“I don’t think I will ever feel safe going to the mall again,” said Van Rooyen, who also commended the police and centre security for helping her through the ordeal and keeping her updated.

“I advise everyone to take pictures of their cars, both inside and outside, to help security track your vehicle down, should it ever be stolen.”

Geraldine Jorgensen, CEO of Ballito Junction, said SAPS were investigating and the mall were giving them their full support.

“The safety of our customers and their possessions is our utmost priority,” said Jorgensen.

This incident is one of multiple cases of car theft that have occurred at the Junction since their opening in March last year, and reportedly the third to occur this year.

Last year in June two vehicles were stolen within seven days, with an additional two incidents of cars being broken into.

Shoppers are warned to be extra careful when leaving their vehicles.

“We urge people to make sure their cars are locked – don’t fall victim to remote jamming – and never to leave valuables inside parked cars,” said captain Pillay.

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