With the Easter holidays just around the corner, criminals tend to take advantage of such festivities to target victims.
The Norwood police have, however, embarked on a crime prevention operation targeting various Johannesburg north-eastern business centres to ensure the safety of shoppers during the festivities.
Captain Elliot Tshivhase of the Norwood Police Station said they have identified a number of shopping centres which have become crime concentrations for most criminals.
Tshivhase cited Norwood Mall, Melrose Arch and Balfour Park as well as the famous Grant Avenue, Norwood Caltex Garage and behind the Norwood Pick n Pay mall, and in Orchards as hot spots.
He also mentioned Algernon Road, Norwood Spar parking lot as well as Budhaven Shopping Centre as some of the most concerning hot spots, as well.
He said they have received a number of complaints regarding the mentioned areas, which is bringing about their crime prevention operation.
“Between 7 and 10 March Norwood Police Station registered nine cases of theft out of a motor vehicle,” said Tshivhase.
“Criminals are suspected to be using jammers and we would like to encourage motorists to be more vigilant when they visit local shopping centres.”
He advises motorists to always keep their most important valuables away from the criminals by hiding them where it is safe and unreachable.
“You find a person leaving a laptop, a cellphone or any other important items including wallets exposed on top of their car seats and that attracts criminals.
“Even though we will be intensifying our efforts to help curb crime in the suburbs and the malls, we also urge motorists to always ensure the safety of their valuables,” said Tshivhase.
Details: Norwood Police Station 011 483 4609.
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