Spike in vehicle theft at north shopping centres

Pretoria North police are calling on motorists and residents to remain on high alert following a surge in vehicle thefts reported in the area.

Shopping centres have become hotspots for criminals targeting unattended or improperly secured vehicles.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Tumisang Moloto, warned that criminals are closely monitoring parking areas, particularly those that are poorly lit or lack surveillance.

He said several incidents have been reported recently, prompting the station to intensify its awareness campaign.

“It has been observed through our analysis that most victims are being targeted while visiting local shopping centres.

“In many cases, the vehicles were not parked in designated spots or were left unattended for extended periods, making them easy targets.”

Motorists are urged to take proactive safety measures, including parking in well-lit, visible areas and ensuring their vehicles are properly locked.

Moloto emphasised the importance of double-checking whether remote-locking devices have effectively secured the vehicle before walking away.

“The use of signal-jamming devices by criminals is becoming common. It’s no longer safe to assume your car is locked just because you pushed a button. Physically check that your vehicle is secure,” he warned.

He said there have also been cases where valuable items such as handbags, laptops, and mobile phones left inside cars have been stolen.

Police are urging the community to remain vigilant and not to leave anything of value in plain sight inside their vehicles, as these items attract criminal attention and increase the risk of a break-in.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the Pretoria North SAPS Client Service Centre on 071 675 6319.

Moloto said police patrols have been increased in and around high-risk zones, but stressed that community co-operation is key in combating the rising trend of vehicle-related crimes.

He mentioned that the local police continue to work with shopping centre management teams and community policing forums to improve safety in the area.

Community members are reminded that crime prevention is a shared responsibility and that every precaution can help reduce the risk.

“Let us work together to ensure our shopping centres remain safe spaces for everyone,” said Moloto.

He said they recently caught four car thieves red-handed attempting to steal a vehicle at North Park Mall.

“Vigilant mall security officers were the first to notice suspicious behaviour from a group of unknown men loitering in the mall’s basement parking area.

“Sensing potential criminal intent, the security officers closely monitored the group before alerting the local police and a private security company for backup.”

Moloto said the rapid response team arrived at the scene and found two suspects already inside a targeted vehicle, seemingly in the process of attempting to hotwire it. The suspects were immediately apprehended.

He said during the operation, police officers also searched a white Toyota Corolla that had been driven by the suspects.

Inside the vehicle, officers recovered several car and housebreaking implements, suggesting the group may have been equipped for a broader crime spree.

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