Funda adds that passengers are also being robbed in the same manner. “The incidents happen a lot when motorists stop at a robot or stop street. Coupled with that, people must not display their jewellery when they are in town because they will also be robbed.”

Funda reports that a total of 40 people were arrested last week for various crimes. Charges include tampering with infrastructure, possession of property suspected stolen, possession of drugs, armed robbery, theft of motor vehicle, shoplifting, drinking and driving, common robbery and house robbery, kidnapping, malicious damage to property, assault, theft and interference with police duties.

“All arrested suspects have appeared in the Vereeniging Magistrates Court.

“The theft of laptops in offices is very rife, so people are advised to buy themselves the anti–theft cables that will help secure their laptops. Churches are urged to have security patrolling their parking areas during services and schools should be careful during their sports days or parent-meetings, as thugs are known to steal cars during those times.”