Carjacking incidents on the rise in Chiawelo, Mapetla and Phiri
Moroka SAPS issue carjacking warning.
The Moroka South African Police Service has issued a warning of potential carjacking around Chiawelo and surrounding areas. According to Captain Khoza of Moroka SAPS, areas such as Chiawelo, Mapetla, and Phiri have experienced an increase in carjacking incidents in recent weeks.
“There is an increase of carjackings around Chiawelo, more especially the drinking places,” he said.
According to Khoza, the culprits normally target parked cars and unsuspecting couples, the offenders walk or drive past the victim’s the car to check who is inside, once they have that information, they come back armed and demand that the occupants (if there are any) exit the vehicle.
“We have been preaching for years that couples should stop hanging around in their cars next to gates or sidewalks,” said Khoza. “These guys pass you and then they come back, next thing you know, they’re knocking on your window and your car is stolen just like that.”
While deserted areas and taverns are more likely to experience carjacking crimes, Khoza insisted that there is no specific pattern or targeted areas where the carjacking commonly takes place and said that anyone could fall victim. All residents are, therefore, advised to exercise extreme caution.
“A lot of these carjacking incidents take place at night, there is really no peak team for carjacking, there is no pattern or specific hotspot, as early as 5 pm your car could be stolen. All motorists should really be careful at all times and avoid parking on sidewalks, pavements or taverns,” said Khoza
On precautions to be taken, Khoza advised that those who come home from work late should rather have someone meet them at the gate to open for them. This is safer, as opposed to parking outside the gate and going out to open it yourself, as this leaves both the car and the owner vulnerable.
For couples, the Captain recommended that they should rather park inside the gate or go indoors. Victims of a carjacking crime may contact the SAPS on 10111, the 24-hour crime reporting call center or come directly to the station.
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