Community members reminded to always remain safe
Police spokesperson Constable Lethabo Mashilaone said we are in the festive season, and that a safer season for the community they serve is their priority, hence they do not want criminals to take advantage of their community.
Community members were reminded to treat every day as a no violence against women and children day and were further urged to report any form of violence.
The residents of Mamelodi were reminded during a Gender-Based Violence and Safer Festive Season awareness campaign at Riverside informal settlement organised by Mamelodi east police together with the Department of Community Safety, Community Policing Forum, Community Patrollers and Community in Blue on Saturday.
Police spokesperson Constable Lethabo Mashilaone said we are in the festive season, and that a safer season for the community they serve is their priority, hence they do not want criminals to take advantage of their community.
The following safer festive season tips were shared with community members:
HIJACKINGS
– Avoid being alone in a vehicle when travelling at night.
– Do not stop at any secluded area.
– Do not pick up hitchhikers, particularly when you drive alone.
– Always be alert when driving. If you suspect that you are being followed by a suspicious-looking vehicle, drive to the nearest police station or call 10111.
– Increase caution at intersections, always keep a lookout for people loitering around your car.
ROBBERIES
– Do not keep too much money at the business premises.
– Do not display money in public.
– Do not ask for help from strangers at ATMs.
– Enhance security by installing burglar bars on windows and a security door.
– Do not keep the shop open till late.
– Ask neighbours to keep an eye out when you go away.
Mashilaone said the police distributed 100 whistles to the community to enhance their neighbourhood watch.
“The community members will blow the whistles when they see anything suspicious,” he said.
They also touched on the issue of stokvel members, social clubs sharing money at the end of the year, and urged them to use bank transfers to share their hard-earned money rather than having a large sum of money in their possession.
Residents of Mamelodi were further warned to be careful of people posing as prophets on the streets and shopping malls with the intention to prey on unsuspecting victims.
Please, do not buy into their story, whatever they offer. Many people have fallen victim to such crimes, especially during the holidays.
The public was advised to report any illegal activities to Mamelodi East SAPS on 012 815 7000 or call 08600 10111.
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