The Pretoria Central police, along with partner organisations, recently held two outreach campaigns in the CBD, advising residents on what to look out for regarding crime during the holidays.

The campaigns were formed as part of the festive season preparations to ensure that people are well-equipped and guard against falling victim to any crime.

Station spokesperson Constable Thabang Nkhumise said they handed out various pamphlets informing the community about safety hints to prevent hijackings, business robberies, common robberies, and bogus salespersons.

“We are pleading with the community not to carry large sums of money, refrain from trusting bogus salespeople outside shops, avoid seeking help from strangers in malls, and secure their belongings,” Nkhumise said.

The teams were stationed at Sammy Marks Square and Marabastad. One team was led by Sergeant Tshinanne Ndou, Sector 1 Commander and Constable Nkumise, while the other was led by CPF Secretary, Chris Kgosi, Odwa Mafanya, CPF Sector 1, and Timothy Moeam, Sammy Marks security head.

Another group took to the streets of Marabastad, led by Warrant officer Queen Mahlangu from Social Crime Prevention, currently acting as a sector commander for Marabastad, along with a team of patrollers to increase visibility in that sector.

“Businesses were also visited and encouraged not to keep large sums of money on their premises, tighten their security, and try to refrain from opening after trading hours,” Nkhumise added.

“This is part of an initiative made by the station to prepare for a safer holiday season and to minimise crime. We want to ensure that visibility is already enhanced in various crime hot spots,” said station commander, Brigadier Gibin Hlengani Mashaba.

It was a joint effort among the police and various stakeholders, including private security entities, the CPF and the Department of Community Safety.

Here are important numbers to remember: Crime Stop 08600 10111, SAPS Emergency number 10111, mobile emergency number 112.

Alternatively, download the MySAPS App or directly contact the station on 012 353 5001.

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