The festive season is upon us and with it comes shopping and travels.
The Bedfordview SAPS has, over the years, expressed concern over the spike in criminal activities during this time.
Spokesperson, Captain André de Jager, said the shopping centres are targeted by criminals during this time.
He said due to big transactions that people will be making, shopping malls will be highly monitored.
Security companies join SAPS in preventing crime
“During this time people also get their bonuses and frequent malls to shop, eat or do business. We urge both the shoppers and shop owners to exercise extreme caution during this busy time,” said Capt De Jager.
He said the station will launch its visible policing plan soon.
“We have joined hands with stations from our cluster and plan to carry out road blocks as well as sessions where pamphlets will be handed to shoppers,” said Cpt De Jager.
He said residents should, at all times, refrain from making large withdrawals and carrying large sums of cash on their person.
“We also urge our residents to leave their expensive jewellery at home when going shopping or in public spaces including restaurants. These attract criminals and many of our residents have fallen victim to follow-home robberies because of jewellery worn at the time of going shopping,” he said.
Capt De Jager said residents travelling during this time should make arrangements for someone to remain at their property.
“Should this not be possible, we always advise home owners to make sure all windows and doors are locked and that all mail is cleared. Where possible, always have sensor lights to avoid having your lights burning all day and night,” said Capt De Jager.
He said the station would reveal its visible policing plan soon.
