Vehicle theft on the rise: Brighton Beach residents alerted

The police urged the public to be on high alert as the festive season approaches because crimes have been on the increase.

October 29, 2024

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police car badge — Stock image for illustration purposes.

POLICE in Brighton Beach have issued a warning about the ongoing increase in incidents relating to theft from and out of motor vehicles.

Also read: Increase in vehicle theft – police warn car owners

A sector of The Bluff and Clairwood is being affected, with the majority of the incidents occurring inside and outside residences. The police said these crimes are occurring during the day and night.

The spokesperson for the Brighton Beach Police Station, Captain Louise le Roux, said, “As we approach the festive season, incidents are expected to occur more frequently. During this period, vehicle owners visit public places such as malls, beaches and places of entertainment.

“It is imperative that vehicle owners report these incidents, even if they are not insured, as the police need this data to enable us to police this crime efficiently,” said Le Roux.

Safety tips to avoid falling prey to crime:

● Do not leave vehicle keys or the spare set lying on tables near windows or hanging on key racks. Place keys in a drawer that cannot be reached through a window.

● When parking your vehicle, try doing so with the front facing an obstacle. Turn the wheels towards the curb and lock the steering.

● Cause your vehicle to be disabled if stolen by installing a starter interrupt switch – ‘killer switch’.

● Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel column or brakes (clubs/collars/J-bars) which can minimise the chances of your vehicle being stolen.

● When locking your vehicle, feel the door handle to ensure your door is locked securely.

● When activating your car’s alarm system with your remote, face your vehicle.

● Ensure you hear the doors lock and can see the indicator light flash. Wait for 30 seconds before you walk off to ensure your locking device has not been deactivated.

● Copy your licence plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to circulate your vehicle. Not having this information will cause a delay in circulating and tracing your vehicle.
● Always lock all doors to your vehicle when parked, including when parked behind security gates and inside your garage.
● Always park in high-traffic areas rather than in isolated areas. Whether you’re parking in the street, on the verge or in a secured parking garage, opt for a well-lit area, preferably under streetlamps.
● Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership titles or credit cards in your vehicle or house keys.
● Your vehicle’s Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on the windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This makes it difficult for a thief to sell your stolen car parts.
● Never leave your car running while unattended.
● Do not leave valuables in plain sight; lock them away in the trunk of the vehicle.
● Do not travel with valuables left on passenger seats or the floor. Handbags must also be locked in the trunk of the vehicle.
● If possible, invest in a vehicle-theft tracking/security system; this will assist the police in tracking your vehicle if stolen or to assist them in also tracking you should you fall prey to a hi-jacking/kidnapping.

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