Robbers are cunning and very unpredictable.

That gives them an advantage when they target unsuspecting victims.

This was the case on August 8 in Klipfontein Extention 16.

It is alleged that at 18:45, a male victim was done shopping for food and on his way home when he was suddenly blocked off by a Toyota Avanza.

The suspects then approached the male victim where he fled on foot after he noticed they have firearms and were up to no good.

Upon fleeing, two male suspects gave chase after the victim, but could not catch up, leaving him unharmed.

Upon returning to his stationary vehicle, he noticed that his cellphone and three boxes containing valuables had been stolen.

The suspects are still at large and a case of robbery was opened at the Witbank Police.

Captain Eddie Hall, spokesperson for the Witbank SAPS had a few tips for preventative measures to proactively prevent street robberies:

1) Avoid walking alone on the street at night. Use well-lit roads.

2) Walk near the curb ‒ away from shrubbery where someone could be hiding.

3) Walk against traffic so that cars cannot surprise you from behind.

4) Keep an arm’s length away from strangers.

5) Be cautious of strangers approaching you to ask the time or directions.

If you think someone suspicious is approaching you or following you, cross to the other side of the street and head for the nearest public place.

6) Don’t make it obvious that you’re in unfamiliar territory.

Giving the appearance of not paying attention and not being alert is what suspects look for in a victim.

7) Stay sober enough to be able to take care of yourself. Criminals see drunken persons as easy prey.

8) Walk briskly and with confidence.

At night, avoid public parks, vacant lots, alleys and areas with excessive trees and bushes.

9) Know which stores and other public places are open along your route.

10) Don’t hesitate to run back to where you came from to get help.

11) Look for anyone ‘hanging’ around your car or your path to your car.

12) Have your keys in your hand and be ready to open the car door.

13) Don’t carry your purse loosely around your shoulder.

Keeping cash in a separate money clip or pouch will allow you to hand it over without sacrificing your credit cards, identification, and personal papers.

14) If possible, avoid carrying a purse and keep a wallet in your pocket instead.

Never wrap a purse strap around your wrist; forcible removal could result in serious personal injury.

15) If you are being robbed, try to stay calm and obey the robber’s instructions.

Tell the robber about anything that might surprise him, such as someone who is expected to arrive soon. If you have to move or reach, tell the robber what you are going to do and why.

16) RELEASE YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS. Do not risk personal injury.

17) Make a mental note of the robber’s appearance, i.e. height, weight, hair colour/style, clothing, etc.

If possible, take down the vehicle’s license plate number, a description of the vehicle, and the direction the robber is fleeing.

18) Give the robber time to leave.

Note his direction of travel when he leaves.

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