The Brooklyn police are hunting for a gang that robbed two people of their expensive watches at the weekend.
Spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said a 66-year-old man driving into his security complex had opened the gate for a silver Mercedes-Benz behind him, thinking the driver was a new tenant who was yet to obtain their remote control for the gate.
“The man approached the motorist to offer his assistance, but the motorist pointed a firearm at him and ordered him to hand over his expensive watch. The motorist, and his two passengers who all wore balaclavas and gloves, also took the gate remote control and left the premises.”
Weilbach said the police suspected the man had been followed from a shopping complex in Hazelwood.
“On Sunday around 16:30, a couple entering their property in Waterkloof Ridge were approached by two armed men. The robbers demanded the couple’s watches and money. They took other jewellery the couple wore and fled in a silver SUV Peugeot,” said Weilbach.
She said the SAPS and private security companies had since put a plan in place to prevent further robberies, but urged residents to beware and provided the following safety advice:
ALSO READ: NATIONAL NEWS: Residents fear attacks by panga gang
– When possible, leave expensive jewellery and wrist watches at home when going out for shopping or to restaurants. Many of the robbers hang around at expensive restaurants and shops to identify potential victims.
– Check your driveway and street before you leave or enter your premises.
– Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear of shrubbery where perpetrators can hide.
– Be aware of unknown pedestrians close to your residential address. Do not turn into your driveway. Pass and go back later.
– Beware of vehicles parked with occupants inside close to your home.
– Do not pull into your driveway until your gate is open, this will prevent anybody from boxing you in.
– Stop your vehicle on the other side of the gate in reverse gear while waiting for the gate to close behind you. This creates confusion and may buy you a few seconds for the gate to close completely behind you.
– Regularly check your rearview mirror and take note if you notice a vehicle has been behind you for a while. If you suspect you are being followed, drive to a busy location and immediately contact the police.
ALSO READ: Gang might be behind robbery of radio personality
– Contact your security provider to patrol your street when you return home late at night or even when you feel vulnerable or suspect you are being followed.
– Women travelling alone and older people are more at risk, as they are seen as easy targets.
– Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the SAPS immediately by phoning the emergency number, 10111.
You can report criminal activity anonymously to the police on 08600-10111 or by SMS to 32211.
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
