CrimeNews

Have a safe festive season

Safety on the outside of the mall is as important as the inside.

As people continue their festive season present-buying, it is also the time that criminals target shoppers.

Mr Theunis Kotze the General Manager of ADT Inland Region, urges shoppers to be cautious when they visit malls during this period.

He said the majority of cases seen are shoppers who are followed home from the mall and then hijacked in their driveways.

“Criminals are aware that these shoppers have a car full of newly-purchased items and are generally easy, distracted targets. Awareness is your most effective defence so keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles that may be following you and, if in doubt, drive to your nearest police station or security provider guard house,” he said.

He also said drivers need to remember the general hijacking safety tips, such as waiting in the road for the gate to open before driving in and making sure the gate is closed properly behind your vehicle before exiting the vehicle. In addition, Mr Kotze said in order to remain safe in malls, shoppers need to carry as little as possible in their handbags or pockets. They should leave unnecessary bank or store cards, as well as large amounts of money, at home.

“A packed clothing store or supermarket is prime hunting-ground for a pick-pocket or bag-snatcher. Never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley. If you don’t use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers,” he said.

Mr Kotze provided the following tips with regards to withdrawals at ATMs.

r If you do need to draw money at an ATM, use a machine in a busy area.

r Be aware of anyone standing nearby and don’t accept help from strangers when entering your pin number.

r Put your money in your purse or wallet before you walk away from the ATM.

r If you think someone has followed you from the machine, walk into the nearest shop or up to a mall security guard

“Safety on the outside of the mall is as important as the inside,” said Mr Kotze. He said shoppers should have their vehicle keys ready before leaving the mall so that no time is wasted to get your purchases and yourself into your car. He also advised shoppers not to do late night shopping.

“While the idea of a quieter shopping mall may seem appealing, you are more vulnerable in the car parks and mall bathrooms. If you have no other choice, be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals to the mall security,” he said.

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