Alert issued after robbery spike

AN alert has been issued by Brighton Beach SAPS following an increase in the number of robberies being reported.

According to media officer, Captain Louise Le Roux, there has been an influx of robbery cases being reported where force is used, often with knives. These robberies have been reported all over the Brighton beach SAPS policing area and don’t occur within in a specific time period.

The police have issued the following guidelines to minimise risk:

* If confronted, observe all requests. Don’t challenge your attackers – hand over the demanded items because they won’t hesitate to hurt you to get what they want.

* Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions.

* Don’t use bushy areas or stairways – rather use a public road.

* Know the hot spots in your area.

* Don’t walk the street intoxicated or while texting or talking on your phone.

* Walk near the curb, on the side closest to, and facing oncoming traffic. This decreases the risk of someone in a car coming from behind you and gives you a better angle for seeing into doorways, alleys and a better path to escape if attacked.

* If you predominantly travel by foot, attach a whistle to your handbag or belt to which have easy access. Blow short, loud breaths through your whistle as this will serve as an alarm and attract attention.

* Look over your shoulder frequently to ensure you are not being followed. If you suspect you are being followed, change direction and move towards a group of people or enter a shopping complex.

* The most important rules are to be vigilant at all times, be aware of your surroundings and those around you and avoid situations that make you vulnerable to falling prey to a robbery.