Members of the Linden Police’s Sector 2 successfully apprehended four individuals suspected to be part of a ring engaged in the theft of motor vehicles in the Linden CBD on 22 July. Sergeant Bhekifa Marsh was doing his routine patrols in the Linden CBD when a noticed a suspicious-looking vehicle parked on the corners of 4th Street and 8th Avenue.”The Sargent noticed a parked old-model silver Ford Fiesta with four people inside. When he tried to question them, the suspects attempted to run away,” said the Linden police’s Captain Alex Vermaak. Marsh radioed for backup who responded quickly and were able to track down the suspects near to the area. “We suspect that the vehicle that they were travelling in was stolen, and we also suspect that they were trying to steal other vehicles in the area before they were apprehended,” said Vermaak. Three suspects are in their early 20s, with the other being in his early 30s, and all will be facing charges of possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle and possession of car-breaking implements. Vermaak added that issues of the theft of motor vehicles and theft from motor vehicles continue to be a problem for the Linden policing area, and thus encouraged vigilance. He issued the following safety tips for your safety:
- Ensure that your vehicle is locked by pulling on its handle before leaving it parked to avoid signal jamming
- Avoid parking your motor vehicle where no security officers are guarding other cars
- Valuable items such as laptops and cameras should be put in the boot of your car and do not leave your valuables in full sight
- Prepare your journey by packing all your valuables where they’re safe before you leave either from work to home or vice versa
- Stop using mobile phones while driving or at intersections. One can still return calls when arrived at their destination
- Observe your surroundings and always close your windows when driving in populated areas, such as city centres and CBDs
