Beware of bag snatching in town
"At this time of year, criminals are aware of the fact that most people are busy with Christmas shopping and thus have money with them"
As the festive season approaches, criminals become more opportunistic. From bag snatching to remote control car lock jamming, their eyes and ears are open to spot a vulnerable victim.
During the month of November, bag snatching cases were reported in the central business district. In the first instance, which was reported to police, two women, aged 62 and 64, were walking in Alexandra Street at about 10.30am when a thief struck.
A man ran up to the pair and grabbed one of their handbags before fleeing. In Harding Street, a 33-year-old woman’s handbag was snatched from her vehicle.
“The woman was driving out of a parking lot in Harding Street at about 2.30pm when a man opened her car passenger door and grabbed the bag off the seat before fleeing,” said police spokesperson Captain Charmaine Struwig. She urges residents to be extra vigilant when carrying bags.
“At this time of year, criminals are aware of the fact that most people are busy with Christmas shopping and thus have money with them. They look out for individuals who appear to be easy targets,” said Captain Struwig.
To prevent falling victim to criminals, here are some tips:
• Do not carry large amounts of cash with you, rather use other means of payment or carry only as much as you need. • Be aware of your surroundings. If you notice anyone following you or paying you unnecessary attention, immediately enter the closest store and ask for help; report the suspicious person to police.
• Do not carry valuables around with you in your handbag.
• Do not leave your handbag unattended when shopping or trying on clothes.
• When driving or sitting in a parked vehicle, always ensure that your locks to the doors are engaged.
• Rather place your handbag and other valuables out of sight of others, such as in the boot of your car.
• Do not use your cell phone out in public.
• Do not draw attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewellery when shopping.
• When making cash payments or cash withdrawals, do not let anyone see how much cash you have with you or how much cash you withdraw from an ATM.
• Walking in groups can also act as a deterrent.
