Crime syndicates targeting Springs residents

The Springs SAPS has warned the community of prevalent crimes that have taken place over the past few weeks.
According to Capt Johannes Ramphora from the local police station, the occupants of a white Toyota Quantum are targeting female commuters.
“They pick up the women while pretending to be a legitimate taxi, with other passengers.
“As the victim tries to step out, one of the other people in the taxi will grab her handbag and other valuables.
“They will push her out of the car and drive off.”
Commuters are urged to be vigilant and to only travel in legitimate taxis which bear stickers from the different taxi associations.

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Another prevalent crime involves hitchhikers.
“In this case, the group of robbers will be travelling in a private car and they pick up hitchhikers around the CBD.
“After the victim gets into the car, the driver will pretend something is wrong with the car.
“The driver then asks everyone to push the car so that he can start it,” explained Ramphora.
At this point, the victim will be encouraged to leave their belongings in the car and help push the vehicle.
“After they push for a little while, the car starts and the other passengers jump into the car.
“The victim is then left, and their belongings are in the car.”
Lastly, Ramphora said there seems to be a syndicate targeting companies that hire out trailers.
“They use fake documents when applying to the hiring companies.
“Then they just take the trailers and do not return them when they are supposed to,” added Ramphora.

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