Bedfordview police have issued a warning to residents about the increased number of hijackings and guest house robberies cases.
The police spokesperson Sergeant Lillian Modiga said hijackings are the new trend used by criminals to extort money from the victims’ loved ones.
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She said residents should take precautions when driving, whether alone or with loved ones.
She added that this trend seems to be spreading across the country.
“With regards to the guest house crimes, these criminals enter the premises under the pretence to book accommodation. At times they even pretend to want to enquire about the services of the business.
“That’s when they rob them of whatever valuables they have in sight and that of their clients,” elaborated Modiga.
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She is advising the public to report to the nearest police station should a loved one be kidnapped.
“We have sector vehicles that victims can contact when in danger or in need of police assistance.
“They should not try to resolve the situation on their own, like following the suspects but rather contact the police immediately.”
In preparation for this year’s 16 Days Of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which will run from November 25 to December 10, the station reminds the public about its Victim Empowerment Centre which caters for victims of abuse, including counselling services.
Modiga said since the beginning of the year they have recorded about 50 cases of GBV, with the most notable cases being from eMabondeni.
“We always advise people who do not want to open a case to opt for a protection order. At times you find that people are scared of opening a case and we can’t force them to do so.
“Help is available from our side whenever the public needs it,” concluded Modiga.
Numbers to use to report a crime for sector one is 071 675 6885, sector two 071 675 6888 and for sector three 071 675 6889. Alternatively, call 071 675 6890 or dial 011 457 2299.
