DURBAN North SAPS warned residents of a spike in theft out of motor vehicles in uMhlanga and Durban North.

Captain Raymond Deokaran, spokesperson for the station, said the majority of cases opened in recent weeks indicated that remote jammers were active.

“We are concerned about the spike, but we are urging residents not to leave valuables in their car. We have had reports where entry into a vehicle was forced, but the majority of the time, no force was used, which means a remote jamming device has been used. This is very much an opportunist crime. Criminals or syndicates are always on the lookout for any opportunity. Items such as laptops, cameras and phones are what the suspects most often look for. I urge residents to double check they have locked their cars, and not to leave valuables in their cars,” he said.

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The warning was reiterated by the chairman of the Durban North/Umhlanga CPF, Haden Searles.

“This type of crime comes in waves, but is prevalent in the Durban North policing precinct. The advice I offer residents is to take their valuables with them if they are going to shopping centres, or to a restaurant or shop. The syndicates make use of spotters who keep a lookout for soft, easy targets.

“Don’t be blasé about your surroundings and ensure your vehicle is correctly locked. Physically check the handles of your vehicle as awareness is key. Most cars have a clearly audible locking mechanism, so ensure you listen out for that before locking the vehicle using a remote. The other mistake residents make is when they arrive at a destination they get out of the vehicle and put the items into the boot, this is where, once again, the spotters pick their targets,” he said.