Robberies and smash-and-grabs are on the rise along Nelson Mandela Drive.
According to Sunnyside police, robbers target everyone, including primary school pupils, tertiary institutions’ students and adults, while thieves target motorists.
All they want is money, cell phones and valuable property. “We urge people to be extra careful when travelling in the area,” Sunnyside police spokesperson, Sergeant Malatsi, said. She added that people should avoid walking around the area in isolation.
One of the recent victims is a 20-year-old Tshwane University of Technology student, Bongani Sibiya. Two criminals armed with knives robbed Sibiya of his cell phone, ID and bag with his books, study materials and cell phone charger.
He now fears that the robbery might cost him much more, as he will struggle to prepare for the exams, which are around the corner, if he doesn’t find the books.
The robbery took place on the corner of Nelson Mandela Drive and Robert Sobukwe Street (formerly Esselen Street).
The criminal ran under the bridge and disappeared after the incident. Crime in Mandela Drive takes place up to the Fountain Circle. In an attempt to reduce crime in the area, police have confirmed that they have regular patrols around the area and they have also stationed a police trailer on the corner of Nelson Mandela Drive and Robert Sobukwe Street.
In addition, they conduct regular operations to remove people living under the bridges along the street. One of the police officials who not want to be named, highlighted that sometimes it is difficult to catch suspects because of the A Re Yeng project.
Some streets are closed due to ongoing construction and police cannot arrive at the scene of crime quick enough to apprehend suspects.
Rekord discovered that there were indeed a number of people living under the bridges.
