As theft out of motor vehicles increases in our community, Randburg Police Station gives residents advice on how to better safeguard their valuables.
Captain Makgowanyana Maja of the station explained this sort of crime is a concern as people tend to be victims by leaving their valuables in full view of potential criminals, hiding their belongings inside their vehicle in full public view.
“People also use their electronic devices while stationary at red traffic lights or intersections during peak hours,” he said.
Maja said the use of mobile devices while driving also obstructs the driver’s concentration to observe their surroundings, “This is when criminals take advantage and pounce on the motorist,” he added.
Here are tips the station issued as protective measures:
- 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
- Do not wear or expose expensive jewellery.
Fidelity ADT also weighed in on the issue and said, unfortunately, residents are too complacent when it comes to movable property outside their security perimeter.
Chris Van Deventer, Community Development Manager for the organisation, encouraged residents to park inside their perimeter security if possible and, if not, to ensure that they do not leave any valuables in their vehicles if they are parked on the pavement.
“It’s especially important not to leave any valuable items inside the car where they can be seen from the window. Rather lock these items in the boot,” he said.
Ven Deventer concluded that residents should also ensure that their vehicles are locked when parked at shopping centres, schools, businesses and so on.
“The growing use of remote jamming devices to block or jam the locking mechanism of motor vehicles has unfortunately become an everyday occurrence. Always check that the car is locked by testing the door. Don’t assume that by pressing the remote locking that your car is locked.”
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