Criminals allegedly stole R40 000 out of a resident’s vehicle in Ermelo on 19 April.

Mr Theo Craven, control room operator for ACSU and district manager for the SACCW Gert Sibande Region, pleaded with residents not to withdraw large sums of money from the bank and then leave the money in their vehicles.

He urged residents not to leave their valuables under the car seat, on the seat or in the cubby of their vehicles.

“Daily we have motorists who leave valuables such as laptops, hand bags and purses in their vehicles, and then thieves use a remote jammer to open the vehicle,” Mr Craven said.

He wants residents to understand the importance, because their belongings will get stolen.

Mr Craven told motorists to take the time to safely put valuables away.

“If you withdraw large sums of money, go directly home or where you need to go, but make sure you are not being followed.

“Take the time to check that your vehicle’s doors are closed and locked,” he said.

According to him, when vehicles are remotely jammed, criminals hide behind the vehicle or where they cannot be seen.

They then open the rear door slightly and when the motorist thinks he has locked his vehicle and walks away, the criminals open the door and steal the valuables.

If your experiencing any problems or notice any suspicious people or situations, contact Mr Craven at 081 733 0032.