POLOKWANE – The Polokwane police, in collaboration with the local Community Policing Forum (CPF), have endorsed the formation of a group of vehicle car guards known as SA Car Guards.

This initiative aims to address the increasing number of vehicle break-ins in Polokwane, particularly in high-crime areas such as Grobler Street and Landdros Maré Street.

Previously working individually, these volunteers now focus on monitoring and preventing theft from motor vehicles.

This comes in response to recent crime statistics indicating that Polokwane ranks seventh out of 30 stations in terms of vehicle break-ins.

SA Car Guards began their operations on Monday, according to the organisation’s director, Peet van Wyk.

He stressed the need for additional volunteers and invites interested individuals to contact him at 074 944 6097.

Despite the growing concern, only two arrests have been made from the 33 reported cases of vehicle theft between August 1-26 at the Polokwane Police Station.

CPF Polokwane chairperson Rudolph Phaswana noted a 15% reduction in such cases compared to the same period last year.

Housebreaking cases have also seen a reduction, although Bendor and Flora Park continue to report the highest numbers, despite having relatively tight private security measures.

Phaswana observed that many victims of vehicle theft this month were from outside the city’s policing area, which spans from the central business district to Mamahule and Penina Park to Tweefontein.

He attributed the reduction in vehicle thefts to increased awareness among motorists and the general public.

Recent incidents include a Gauteng resident and a journalist, both from outside the city’s jurisdiction, who were targeted by thieves.

The CPF advised motorists to keep valuable items out of sight to minimise the risk of theft.

For more information or to volunteer with SA Car Guards, contact Van Wyk at 074 944 6097.