The Cleveland SAPS urged residents to be extra vigilant during the festive season.
According to the Cleveland SAPS spokesperson, Constable Mpho Mashakane, residents should be careful at their homes and while shopping.
“When shopping, put your bag around your neck and diagonally across your body. Your wallet should be in an inside coat or in the front pockets, not on the back ones,” she said.
Residents should be aware of people who need to make fake emergency calls.
“Do not be tricked into lending your cellular phone to make an urgent call. Conceal your cellular phone when you are in a public place,” she said.
Const Mashakane said bogus council officials tend to target residents during this time of the year.
“Home owners and their employees should be extra cautious during this time. Unsuspecting domestic workers, garden staff and children are often approached by these scammers pretending to be inspectors and repairmen officers or inspectors. People who are home during the day should be made aware of these scams. They should not open for anyone who wants to fix or inspect something on the property without prearranging this with the owner,” said Const Mashakane.
She said before visiting, motorists need to know the directions to their destination.
“Make sure your car is in a good condition. It can take you to where you want to go and bring you back. It has to have enough petrol for the planned trip. If you get lost, park your car at a busy parking lot, or at the petrol station. Never pick up hitchhikers, especial in the evening,” she said.
Const Mashakane said children have to be taught basic information about themselves and their families.
“They need to know their residential addresses and the telephone numbers of their parents, or those who they stay with. Keep your children close to you at malls or at swimming pools. They should also avoid short cuts and isolated places,” said Const Mashakane.
