West security company reports rise in cell phone snatchings

There has been an increase in the number of pedestrians being targeted by cell phone snatchers in the west of Pretoria, according to a local security company.

“Pedestrians are being targeted while waiting on the side of the road for an e-hailing service, public transport to and from work or even just walking on the street,” said Fidelity ADT security company spokesperson Charnel Hattingh.

She said cell phone snatchers struck at any time of day – pedestrians can be waiting outside on the pavement for an Uber or public transport.

“We have also noticed a re-emerging trend where criminals are driving around pretending to be an e-hailing service looking for opportunities to commit crimes.

“I urge everyone to be vigilant,” Hattingh added.

She had the following tips to keep safe:

– Pedestrians should make sure they know what the load-shedding roster is so they can never walk in the darkness.

– They should not walk with earphones listening to music.

– Walk with someone to be a little less vulnerable; two people can also help to identify perpetrators and the vehicle they are travelling in better than one.

– This will help security companies to get criminals behind bars.

– If you are a victim of an attempted phone snatching, try to get a description of the perpetrators or their vehicle. Quickly tell what you know to security or police so that they can immediately react to this.

– Remember to report the incident, even if it was just an attempt. A crime is not a crime and will not get recorded unless it is reported.

– Hide valuables in a bag or inside a jacket pocket.

– Never talk on the phone while out walking as this makes you an easy target.

Lyttelton police spokesperson Captain Dave Miller said police held regular operations in crime hotspots to increase visibility to keep residents safe.

“We do our best to make the community aware in terms of where the crime hotspots are,” Miller said.

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