Tyre theft wave hits eMalahleni
The police advise motorists to always make it difficult to remove their tyres and be mindful of the spaces and positions they park in.
The police are investigating three cases of tyre thefts that left cars on bricks and owners at a sudden loss that will cost them thousands.
In the first robbery, which was carried out swiftly and silently, a man told the police that he had been notified by his brother, who drove behind his Toyota Hilux on the evening of September 12, about a chain hanging underneath his bakkie. When he stopped to check, his spare wheel was gone.
In another incident, a man from Klawer Street in Tasbet Park reported that on the evening of September 13, he parked his Toyota Hilux at his home, only to find it on top of bricks the next morning, as his four tyres and spare wheel were gone.
Recently, another victim from Tasbet Park also alleged that he woke up to his vehicle on top of bricks in the morning of September 16, as all four tyres and rims had been stolen.
Captain Eddie Hall, spokesperson for the Witbank SAPS, shared the following tips to prevent tyre theft:
“To make your wheels harder to steal, replace one nut or bolt on each wheel with a locking type that requires a unique key. Always keep this key well-hidden, never inside the car. For an added layer of security, consider a car alarm with tyre pressure sensors or tilt sensors that activate if the vehicle is jacked up or if tyre pressure suddenly drops.”
He added secure your parking area by installing bright motion-sensor LED lighting and a CCTV system with visible signage; even affordable Wi-Fi cameras can be a strong deterrent. Solid, lockable gates and secure fencing can also make it difficult for thieves to access your vehicle. When parking, make it physically difficult for a thief by turning your wheels inward or parking the vehicle tightly against a wall or high kerb.
Additionally, an active neighbourhood watch or WhatsApp group can provide an early warning of suspicious activity. Finally, varying your daily routines, such as changing your parking spot or times, can make it harder for thieves to plan a theft.
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