Lyttelton residents, especially those in Von Willich Avenue, live under constant threat of attack. Residents who walk in the street, especially early morning between 05:30 and 06:30, and at night after 18:00, are often mugged.
The latest incident was on Wednesday morning at 07:30 at the corner of Von Willich Avenue and Rabie Street, when a couple of men jumped out of a red VW Citi Golf and mugged a man walking to the station. They stole his backpack and cell phone. The incident was caught on CCTV camera. Anyone with information on these men is urged to call the Lyttelton Sector 7 community policing forum (CPF) on 086-157-1911, or the Lyttelton SAPS on 012-644-8600.
Incidents of muggings are reported weekly, but muggers are often not caught. Last week a woman was mugged on the Gerhard Street bridge next to the Protea Hotel, and her assailants have not been caught.
“We suspect that it is the same group of people operating in the area. The people they attack are most likely heading for the Gautrain station. They often steal from people who are walking to the station with their laptops in bags,” said Chris Evans, head of the Lyttelton Sector 7 CPF, who regularly deals with these muggings.
“I also walk to the station in the mornings, but I make sure I don’t carry my cell phone visibly or use earphones. I am vigilant and keep my eyes open to see what is going on around me, in order not to be caught off guard. I would advise anybody who has to walk to the station, to do the same. We urge people to try and find alternative means of transport than walking, when they need to go via Von Willich,” Evans added.
Last week, Warrant Officer Hero Gumbu of the Lyttelton police warned people to stay away from the open field on the corner of Von Willich Avenue and Hall Street, as it is also a notorious hotspot for crime.
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Also read: Robberies at Gerhard Street bridge
Muggings plague Von Willigh Avenue
Be aware of Centurion hot spots
