Pickpocketing trend sees car keys swiped from shoppers
Criminals in the north of Pretoria are stealing car keys from unsuspecting shoppers inside malls before driving away with their vehicles.
Police in the north of Pretoria are warning of a trend where criminals prey on motorists while they are still shopping, often stealing their car keys.
Areas where this trend has been noticed include Sinoville, Pretoria North, and Ninapark.
Sinoville police have issued a warning to residents, shoppers, and business owners to be wary of their surroundings following an increase in cases of vehicle theft.
The cases are often linked to the pickpocketing of car keys at shopping centres in the north of Pretoria.
According to the Sinoville SAPS, criminals are increasingly targeting victims by stealing keys from handbags, pockets, and trolleys. They then swiftly locate and drive off with the vehicles from nearby parking lots.
Sinoville police spokesperson, Sergeant Gomolemo Modibane, said the trend was worrying, particularly as criminals have been seen operating in pairs or groups to distract and steal from their victims.
“We have observed a spike in cases where criminals deliberately bump into or distract shoppers to take their car keys.
“Once they have the keys, they head straight to the parking area and drive away with the vehicle,” he said.
The police have noted that the elderly are often the primary targets, as criminals perceive them to be less alert and easier to distract.
Modibane said in most cases, victims only realised their keys were missing once they reached where they had parked their vehicle, only to discover it had been stolen.
He emphasised the importance of being alert when shopping, particularly in busy environments.
“We urge the public to keep their keys in a zipped pocket or secure bag close to the body at all times.
“Never leave keys on trolleys or in open handbags, and be cautious if approached or bumped by strangers,” he said.
The local police have also called on shop owners and shopping centre management to support prevention efforts by displaying safety notices, warning customers about tactics used by thieves, and ensuring their security teams remain alert in parking areas.
He said local neighbourhood watch groups, including the Overkruin Neighbourhood Watch and Sinoville CPF, have pledged their support for police initiatives to curb the trend.
Modibane encouraged shoppers to take additional steps to secure their vehicles, such as using steering wheel locks or immobilisers, and to consider parking in areas monitored by security personnel.
Residents are also urged to immediately report any suspicious behaviour in shopping centres or parking lots to SAPS by calling 10111 or their local CPF.
“Your awareness and quick reporting can prevent a crime before it happens. Together, we can make our shopping centres safer for everyone,” added Modibane.
The warning is the same as last week, when the police in Pretoria North also advised elderly residents to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, following an increase in reports of theft of motor vehicles.
“Criminals are now using more subtle and manipulative tactics to prey on elderly motorists, often stealing their car keys while they are still shopping or distracted inside grocery stores,” said Pretoria North police spokesperson, Sergeant Tumisang Moloto.
Shoppers are also advised to avoid talking to strangers who offer help or try to begin unnecessary conversations while inside shops or parking areas.
“We are encouraging residents to report any suspicious behaviour and to assist the elderly by accompanying them where possible.
“The safety of our elderly must be a shared responsibility. We ask families, caregivers, and neighbours to support their elderly loved ones and ensure they don’t fall prey to these criminals,” he said.
To report suspicious activity, residents can contact the Pretoria North SAPS, visit their nearest police station or contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
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