IN recent months, pedestrians have been targeted in muggings and robberies across Greenwood Park, Avoca and Effingham Heights.

Last month two different gangs struck on Hyacinth Road, Manjee Place and Havelock Road just five hours apart. In those cases, two robberies and an attempted robbery were recorded.

Northglen News also reported on several cases.

A collaborative effort involving Greenwood Park Community Policing Forum (CPF), Greenwood Park SAPS and private security companies has seen patrol operations conducted.

Also read: Four arrested for Chris Hani Road cellphone theft

While arrests have been made, the Greenwood Park CPF Sub-Forum 2 is calling on pedestrians and residents to be wary and vigilant of the crime trend.

Chairperson of Sub-Forum 2 Danusha Makan-Maharaj encouraged those who fall victim to crime to report the cases.

“Even in cases of attempted robbery, to ensure that incidents are documented and investigated, we encourage residents to report it to the police station. We have noticed an increase in crimes targeting pedestrians, including muggings and robberies, in our area. The CPF is working closely with Greenwood Park SAPS and private security companies to address the increase in robberies through collaborative efforts, including increased patrols and community engagement.

“We’ve observed that crime trends can shift from area to area, requiring adaptability and vigilance from both law enforcement and the community. We have a very active street watch or cellphone watch groups with active residents pointing out suspicious security issues. We also have members monitoring crime patterns, suspicious vehicles from surrounding suburbs and areas and sharing intelligence to the community and also to key roleplayers,” Makan-Maharaj said.

Also read: Sisters recount attempted mugging in Greenwood Park

Deputy chairperson of the Greenwood Park CPF Sub-Forum 2 Vishal Sewsanker said many of the suspects involved in the muggings are opportunists.

“The incidents have been reported during the day but mainly in the evening. They are targeting lone pedestrians who are on their phones. Unfortunately they are easy targets as they are walking, distracted by their cellphones. We encourage residents to be aware of your surroundings, especially in isolated areas and avoid walking alone at night or in high-risk zones,” he said.

Sewsanker also urged pedestrians to keep valuables secure and out of sight.

“The CPF encourages all residents to be a part of the forum or join your local WhatsApp groups to be aware of the situation.”

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