Police are urging motorists to remove valuables from their vehicles and physically check that their cars are locked.

The warning follows a smash-and-grab at Linton’s Corner Shopping Centre in Silver Lakes on June 17, where criminals targeted two vehicles parked outside Checkers between 19:15 and 19:30.

According to resident Rani Seeger, a Chevrolet Utility and an Audi Q5 were parked next to each other when suspects smashed the passenger-side window of the Utility and the rear side window of the Audi before stealing valuables.

Among the stolen items were laptops and a bag containing personal documents, including an ID book and driver’s licence.

SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk confirmed that a case of theft out of a motor vehicle is under investigation.

“A case of theft out of a motor vehicle has been reported and is currently under investigation by the SAPS at station level. At this stage, no arrests have been made; however, all available leads will be pursued as part of the ongoing investigation,” said Van Dyk.

He said criminals often target vehicles where valuables such as laptops, cellphones, handbags, cash and other electronic devices are left visible.

“The police are also aware of various methods used by criminals to gain access to vehicles, including the use of signal-jamming devices that interfere with remote-locking systems,” he said.

Van Dyk urged motorists to remain vigilant when parking at shopping centres and other public places.

He said items such as laptops, cellphones, handbags, and cash should be secured in the boot of the vehicle or taken along when leaving the vehicle unattended.

“Motorists are further advised to physically check that their vehicles are properly locked after activating the remote-locking system.”

He encouraged members of the public to immediately report suspicious persons or activities in parking areas to police or shopping centre security personnel.

As part of the investigation, police are reviewing available CCTV footage and working with shopping centre management, private security companies, and other law enforcement stakeholders.

According to Van Dyk, SAPS and private security companies also conduct daily joint vehicle and foot patrols at shopping centres throughout the Boschkop policing precinct to combat vehicle-related crime.

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