Remote Jamming scam shocks shoppers
Reports of remote jamming are on the increase in Newcastle.
Mall shoppers, on a high from a bit of retail therapy, have come crashing back to reality recently with the realisation they are yet another statistic in a remote jamming operations.
Some have arrived back at their vehicles, packets in hand, only to find their belongings left inside the car are missing – some have yet to find their vehicles!
Captain Jabulani Ncube, Newcastle SAPS, says remote jamming, as well as carjacking, is on the increase and warns shoppers to be vigilant.
“Remote jamming has increased immensely. While we have had the occasional report of this occurring at a motorist’s place of residence, it is especially rife at shopping centres,” he cautioned.
Advice from Captain Ncube
“Be more vigilant of your surroundings. Leave your vehicles in areas that are well guarded. These criminals are extremely well disguised and easily go unnoticed, which is why they are able to do what they do,” he warned.
It seems larger vehicles that can be converted to taxis or sold across the border are particularly sought after.
Capt. Ncube considers remote jammers to be a ‘low class criminal’ saying that most of the time the stealing of goods from a vehicle is more about feeding a drug habit than anything else.
He assured motorists/shoppers more visible policing is the goal and policemen have been deployed at remote jamming ‘hotspots’. Undercover cops are also watching and hoping to catch these criminals in the act.
Local malls respond:
Mall management however, are of the opinion that this crime does not happen in their parking lots or at least they are not aware of any cases having been reported.
Marianka Siecker of Newcastle Corner assured shoppers they have been fortunate enough to avoid being affected by the remote jamming trend.
“We have a system in place that warns us in advance if any remote jamming is attempted at the centre.”
She said security at the complex plays an enormous role in ensuring shopper safety.
Hester Malan, General Manager at Newcastle Mall, was happy to report no remote jamming incidents had been reported as yet.
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She could not elaborate on the security detail at the mall saying it is confidential, but she did say tenants and customers are welcome to call the security control room directly on 034 326 1120 to report any suspicious behaviour in the parking lot.
“We would like to thank our customers for their continued support, but we do encourage every patron to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities taking place in our parking lot as well as throughout the entire mall.”
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