Metro police urge for caution as trio crimes plagues city
As the festive season draws close, Tshwane is advising residents and motorists to stay cautious.

The metro police (TMPD) have urged residents and motorists to exercise caution as trio crimes in Tshwane increase.
TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba said a recent joint crime operation with the SAPS had shown a rise in “trio crimes” – car hijackings, home invasions and robberies at non-residential locations – in and around Tshwane.
Mahamba said Tshwane was a playground for criminals as there were other incidents related to smash-and-grab, tyre spiking and cellphone snatching at restaurants.
Hatfield, east of Pretoria has become a hive where unknown perpetrators grab cellphones from unsuspecting victims’ hands and escape in getaway vehicles waiting nearby.
The robberies are over in a mere seconds and the getaway cars are usually a Toyota Corolla, Toyota Etios or Volkswagen Polo.
In September, a restaurant patron was enjoying a beverage in Hatfield, when a snatcher grabbed his cellphone and ran to a getaway vehicle to make their escape.
Here are some recorded incidents in Hatfield:
Phone snatcher in Hatfield Pretoria please help us find him
BOLO AND RETWEET 🔁 pic.twitter.com/WpS08FslT0— Vehicle Trackers (@VehicleTrackerz) September 16, 2023
Failed cellphone snatching, a student was collecting her Ubereats order when a cellphone snatcher tried his luck in Hatfield Pretoria, the student survived the incident with minor bruises.#StayAlert pic.twitter.com/fZLUPQRuYV
— CrimeInSA (@sa_crime) March 20, 2023
Mahamba said areas experiencing high volumes of crime were:
– Hammanskraal (Temba),
– Akasia
– Brooklyn
– Pretoria Central
– Sunnyside
– Centurion
– Soshanguve (Jukulyn, Soshanguve Cemetery)
– Mabopane R80 highway
– Winterveldt
– Mamelodi East,
– Olievenhoutbosch
– Fountains Circle via Nelson Mandela Drive.
Cellphone snatching in Pretoria Cnr Schoeman & Mandela Drive #CrimeTips #StayAleart pic.twitter.com/40n36t8k8f
— CrimeInSA (@sa_crime) November 14, 2021
“We are urging residents and motorists to exercise caution and be extra vigilant when travelling in areas that have recently been identified as crime hotspots.
It is critical that the residents cooperate with the municipality to make sure everyone lives in a secure environment and reduce their chances of becoming victims of crime.”
He said as the festive season drew close, Tshwane authorities advised residents and motorists to stay cautious.
“While law enforcement agencies are actively addressing these concerns, it is imperative that residents and motorists maintain vigilance and adopt the required safety measures to protect themselves and their property.”
He offered the following safety precautions and measures:
– Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about local crime trends and incidents by following official announcements and local news.
“Staying informed is essential for being ready and acting appropriately,” he added.
– Protect your property: Ensure that your home, vehicle, and personal belongings are always secured. Instal reliable security systems, locks, and lighting to deter would-be criminals.
– When driving: Make sure you give the car in front of you one vehicle length worth of space during rush hour. Keep all doors locked and windows closed.
“Keep everything valuable out of sight, including mobile phones, laptops, and handbags.”
When someone approaches your window, exercise caution as this can be a distraction while their accomplice(s) robs you on the opposite side.
“Never, ever offer a lift to hitchhikers.”
– Go in groups: Try to travel in groups whenever you can, especially at night or in remote locations.
“Numbers provide safety, and the likelihood of criminals targeting a gathering of individuals is decreased.”
– Route planning: This is essential when travelling, particularly if you have to drive to an area you have never been to before.
“You should also stick to well-lit main roads. Avoid driving after dark to unknown locations as it is easy to become disorientated and a prime target for criminals.”
– Maintain a fully charged cellphone battery at all times and carry a car charger with you.
“In case of an emergency, have all emergency numbers available on your speed dial. Keep an eye on your surroundings and follow your instincts. Report anything that seems strange or suspicious to the authorities immediately.”
– Parking: Whether on the streets or in shopping centres, motorists need to be overly cautious about where they park because these areas are frequently hotspots for criminals waiting to prey on unsuspecting and defenceless drivers.
“Avoid parking in desolate areas and always park in a busy, well-lit area where other people are moving around. Make a mental note of where you park, especially in underground parking areas, and take note of the floor you park on.”
– Do not talk on your cellphone when walking to your car, as this can be a distraction. Immediately and swiftly pack all bags in the boot and drive off.
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