Moreleta mall proactive fight against crime
“A pamphlet has been created and distributed in the area to create awareness and ensure the safety of the community."
The management of Parkview Shopping Centre in Moreleta Park is working closely with the Garsfontein SAPS to ensure a safer centre as far as possible.
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On 23 February a hijacking docket was opened after a shopper was hijacked and robbed of his personal belongings including his watch and wallet.
Garsfontein police spokesperson, Captain Ilze Jones confirmed a partnership had been created.
“A pamphlet has been created and distributed in the area to create awareness and ensure the safety of the community,” said Jones.
Centre manager, Demitri Christodoulou said that he believed that the charcoal Audi A4, involved in the hijacking, was part of a syndicate operating in Pretoria East.
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Jones said that other possible links were being investigated.
Christodoulou said: “We have enough security that can only do so much. It is up to people to be vigilant.”
“On a quiet day, the officers see three to four vehicles with open windows, but it can be up to nine or 10 a day.”
Christodoulou showed Rekord photos of vehicle doors and even sun roofs left wide open in the parking lot at the centre.
“It is impossible for the guards to go and check every vehicle.”
He said that the police met with the security companies to inform them about crime trends regularly.
“We as a centre have systems and procedures in place to ensure the safety of our customers,” he said.
“We also close certain entrances at certain times of the day. We are proactive.”
Jones shared some safety tips with Rekord readers.
– Valuable items should not be left within sight in a parked vehicle.
– Where possible do not park your vehicle on the pavement, especially overnight. Park it in a yard behind a lockable gate.
– Always lock your vehicle and activate the alarm system, if it is fitted.
– Lock your driveway gate.
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– When approaching your driveway, be vigilant.
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