SAPS reminds you to stay safe

Port Shepstone SAPS would like to caution the public to always be vigilant of their safety and that of their loved ones, as well as safeguarding their personal property and also to improve on the safety measures that they have already implemented.

Members of the public are urged to be more aware when withdrawing funds from ATMs .Do not accept assistance from anyone other than a bank employee or their security personnel. Criminals will distract you and in the process either observe your  PIN code  or alternatively swop  your card.  Make sure you have your own card after every transaction at an ATM or when shopping and paying by card. Do not carry large amounts of cash if possible.

Purchasing vehicles, “pedigree pets” and other items  off the internet has left many people empty handed. A pet is advertised, funds are requested to be deposited into a bank account and the pet is never delivered. The contact number listed no longer works and the bank account has been closed. The public  is also advised to purchase vehicles from registered vehicle dealers if possible or to verify the authenticity of the deal before parting with their hard-earned money.

ALSO READ: 10 Safety tips to bear in mind when using an ATM

All cattle should be branded by owners. The lack of accurate descriptions of the animal or branding makes it difficult to identify the animals once they have been recovered and need to be returned to the rightful owner.

A small business which is cash based and needs to deposit money on a regular basis at the bank should apply the following TIPS which will minimize the chances of them becoming a victim of a robbery.

• Alternate the days and times on which you deposit cash and never make your bank visits public, even to people close to you
• Do not openly display the money you are depositing while you are standing in the bank queue and avoid carrying money bags, briefcases or openly displaying your deposit receipt book.
• It’s advisable to identify another branch nearby that you can visit to ensure that your banking pattern is not easily recognisable or detected
• If the amount of cash you are regularly depositing is increasing as your business grows, consider using the services of a cash management company
• Refrain from driving to the bank in your company branded vehicle on a typical ‘pay day’
• Consider arranging for electronic transfers of wages to your contract or casual labourers’ personal bank accounts

When travelling, make sure all doors are locked and windows are wound up as high as possible. Do not pick up hitchhikers or strangers . Do not  leave valuables in parked vehicles. Criminals often know that drivers hide items under the seat.  Ensure that vehicle doors are locked before walking off as car thieves use remote jamming devices to steal the vehicle or valuable property inside.  On the street, do not make a display of expensive jewellery , cellphones  or other valuables. Using your cellular phone when you are walking, drastically increase the chances of you being robbed and/or attacked.

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