Security forum warns of house burglaries and motor vehicle-related crimes in Garsfontein

Garsfontein residents are urged to be vigilant as security forums note an increase in theft of motor vehicles, theft out of vehicles and house burglaries.

Aris Ruyter from Alpha Security Forum said crime is on the rise in Garsfontein over the weekends.
“We urge all community members to assist in being the eyes and ears for the security and police”.

Ruyter urged residents who have the time to go out and do a quick patrol and share any suspicious activity as soon as possible with the security in your area or the police.

“If you are heading to the shops, take a little longer detour, and when at the shops, just sit for 5 minutes and monitor what’s happening around you, and again, report anything suspicious ASAP,” he said.

He advised residents reporting incidents to provide as much information as possible, such as clothing descriptions, from hats to shoes, car makes and models, licence plates, and direction of travel.

“We need all community involvement throughout the Garsfontein Precinct to slow crime down.

“Let’s stand up as one to assist the brave responders and operators to fight against crime.”

Last June, a crime analyst said the Garsfontein precinct was being plagued by motor-vehicle-related crime, such as theft of motor vehicles and of motorcycles.

The expert said Toyota bakkies, SUVs, VW Polos and Ford Rangers were some of the targeted motor vehicle brands due to the massive underground market.

The expert advised that the only way to reduce crime in Garsfontein is for every member of the community to become the eyes and ears of the police and say something when they see suspicious activity.

He said one hotspot for smash and grabs is the corner of Garsfontein treet and De Villebois Mareuil Drive.

“I think it is a hotspot because of the bushes. They smash, grab and run into the dense bushes,” he said.

HOW TO PREVENT THEFT FROM A MOTOR VEHICLE

Theft from a vehicle typically occurs in three situations, namely:
– Parked vehicle: Items are visible from the outside, and the window is smashed, or the door lock broken or picked.
– Central locking system blockage: A jamming device blocks the vehicle’s central locking system as the owner locks it and walks away.
– Smash and grab: A car stops at a busy four-way stop or traffic light, and items in the cabin are easily seen. A spark plug, stone, or bolt is hurled through a side window, and items are snatched from the passenger or rear seats or the console.

Valuables such as cellphones, laptops/tablets, and handbags must be securely placed in the vehicle’s trunk (boot).
No item should be visible from the outside.
Essential items required at the next destination can be discreetly stored in the cabin, hidden under seats, in door storage compartments, or closed consoles.

Safe parking practices:
– Always park in a secure area.
– Visible security guards and car guards.
– Establish a friendly relationship with security personnel and provide them with reasonable tips for their assistance.

Securing the vehicle:
– Before engaging in other activities, ensure your vehicle is locked, especially due to the rising use of jamming devices by thieves.
– Manually verify that the doors are locked after using a remote.
– For newer luxury vehicles, ensure someone manually checks that the doors are locked after you have moved away with the key.

Preventing “scout” theft:
– At busy crossings like traffic lights and stop signs, theft often occurs facilitated by “scouts” signalling hidden accomplices.
– To prevent this, store all valuables in the trunk or hide necessary items within the cabin (under seats or indoor compartments).

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