POLOKWANE – People under suspicion of using a gate remote control to open shoppers’ motor vehicles, have been spotted at Thornhill Shopping Centre over the past few weeks.
This was brought to Review’s attention following an article warning people to be on the alert for people committing theft of, and out of, motor vehicles. One of the ways in which these thieves gain access to motor vehicles, is by using a gate remote control. The gate remote control is pressed at the same time the vehicle owner tries to arm his or her vehicle, blocking the signal and preventing the vehicle from locking.
Thornhill Shopping Centre manager, Koerie Muller, said there had been no reports to them of any theft being committed in this manner. She added that the centre’s management was working closely with the police, and received daily reports from the centre’s security and police about possible problems at the centre.
Notices have also been circulated to shoppers warning them to take care. “As a rule we work closely with the police to ensure the safety of our shoppers. We urge people to lock their vehicles, and make sure they are locked before walking away.
“They should also make sure their windows are closed properly. We have had incidents in the past in which windows were left open and items were stolen,” Muller said.
Polokwane police spokesperson WO Lesiba Ramoshaba said residents should be vigilant. “Residents are reminded to keep valuables at home or work, and if this is not possible, to lock the valuables in the trunk of the vehicle,” Ramoshaba said.
