Motor vehicle thefts still an issue in Moot

Most crimes, but especially motor vehicle-related crimes such as theft out of cars and carjacking, have shown an increase in the Moot.

This was according to the quarterly crime statistics released recently. Robberies with aggravating circumstances increased by 18 cases in the Moot. However, theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles showed a drop of 43. A total of 30 more cases of commercial crime was reported.

In Villieria, theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles has increased by 11.3%, commercial crime by 53.2% and drug-related decreased by 46%. In the Eersterust area, 18 more cases of common assault were reported and 49 more drug-related crimes. There has been an increase in motor vehicle thefts, especially NP 200 bakkies, Volkswagen Polo and Toyota Etios in the Waverley area. According to Johan Kotzé, of Mantis Security, car-jamming was a huge concern as drivers assumed their doors were locked without checking whether it was indeed so. “We have become too at ease and people need to realise that this is the reality.

They must be aware of their surroundings,” said Kotzé. “Shoplifting has also become an issue, especially now that the festive season is ahead of us. “Avoid withdrawing large sums of money and if you suspect that someone is trying to distract you, cancel the transaction. “Another issue I want to bring to the community’s attention is talking on the phone in shopping centres.

“We have had quite a few complaints of people being robbed while speaking on their cellphones,” he said. Kilnerpark Security spokesperson, Ancelize van der Kooi, warned that house break-ins, as well as theft of vehicles, were increasing.

“Over the past few weeks, several motor vehicle thefts have been reported to us. Avoid leaving valuables in your car. “When you want to withdraw large amounts of cash, inform your security company,” she said. Reinhard Raschke from Citi Protection Crime Response said that as a community “we should not rest on our laurels”. “Our street camera initiative has proven to be very successful.

This is a project that benefits the whole community and we want to expand it.”

Raschke shared some crime tips for this festive season:

– Do not leave your mail in your mailbox so that it accumulates.

Anyone can notice that you are not at home.

The fact that your mailbox is not emptied makes you an easy target for criminals.

– Residents are advised to install a light switch, especially in the evenings.

– Test your alarm with your security company before you go on vacation.

– Do not park your vehicle on the sidewalk.

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