Criminals continue to find new ways to commit vehicle theft, focusing on areas of vulnerability to strike. A concerning new modus operandi has emerged where suspects are targeting vehicles at local car washes.

Last week, there were five reported thefts in the West Rand area.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications  at Fidelity ADT says after arriving at a car wash, unsuspecting customers often leave their cars – and keys – behind to shop or run errands. Taking advantage of this, criminals claim the vehicle as their own, enter it, and drive away.

“We cannot allow bad elements to take advantage of our communities,” says Hattingh.

In recent incidents, suspects arrive at the car wash telling the car wash attendants that they were sent by the owners to collect the car.

Thefts have also occurred where the keys were left in the ignition, and in some cases, suspects even checked for unattended keys before quickly seizing the opportunity. While these incidents began locally, such tactics can spread quickly, making this a relevant concern for all motorists.

Her advise is to follow these precautions:

• Don’t leave your car keys with the attendant when you are at a car wash
• Make sure you are waiting in a spot where you can watch your vehicle
• Watch if you were followed to a car wash or if there are suspicious persons around
• Inform the attendant that only you will be collecting your vehicle
• Remain vigilant of suspicious individuals and report any unusual behaviour to mall or local security.

Report any suspicious activity to the SAPS or security providers in the area.