Warning: hijackings and theft out of motor vehicles on the rise

The Ekurhuleni Central Cluster is warning motorists about the increasing number of hijackings and theft out of motor vehicles.

This comes after a recent increase in reported cases in the cluster.

Ekurhuleni Central Cluster spokesperson Capt Nomsa Sekele said police are appealing to the community to be more vigilant at stop signs, robots and driveways.

“People must try hard not to create an opportunity for criminals to commit crime,” said Sekele.

“Vehicle hijackers are using various modi operandi to commit crime, sometimes posing as job seekers, asking for direction, or selling things.”

Sekele added that in most cases robbers are violent and dangerous.

“We urge the community not to play heroes, but to cooperate in order to save their lives.”

Meanwhile, Sekele said several cases of theft out of motor vehicles were reported to the Benoni Police Station.

Sekele said the community has been warned more than once not to leave valuables around, such as laptops, cellphones, wallets or anything that might attract criminals to break into motor vehicles.

She said most targeted areas are gyms, schools (when there are functions), shopping centres and hospitals during visiting hours.

“Once again we are pleading with the community to work with the police in the fight against crime,” said Sekele.

To report crime, contact the Benoni SAPS on 011 747 0053/0230 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.