Rampant theft and hijackings in Umbilo

DURBAN Central and Umbilo SAPS have urged the community to be wary of theft, armed robbery and hijackings after a spate of crimes in the area.

Captain Phumzile Makaula urged Umbilo residents to be vigilant, saying armed robbers are targeting pedestrians. This after a pedestrian was robbed at gun point on King Dinizulu Road when three suspects stole his cellphone and money on Saturday, May 7.

“The complainant stopped a police vehicle and reported the case. One suspect was arrested for armed robbery,” said Makaula.

This adds to a spate of armed robberies in the area on Umbilo, Rick Turner, King Dinizulu and Che Geuvera roads.

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“We appeal to the community to avoid walking alone, especially in the early hours of the morning and late in the day. It is alleged that the suspects move in groups of three or four,” said Makaula.

Makaula advised pedestrians to walk in well-lit areas where possible.

“Be aware of your surroundings – if you think you are being followed, go to a crowded area.  Do not carry large amounts of money and avoid carrying cell phones. If you observe suspicious people or activities, call the police to investigate,” she said.

Makaula also warned the community to be wary of hijackings after three suspects held a motorist at gun point on Thursday, May 5 on Nicolai Crescent in Umbilo.

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“One of the suspects pointed a firearm and instructed the victim to lie down. One of the suspects was busy dismantling the tracker and the third suspect waited in the victim’s vehicle. The suspects got into the complainant’s car and drove away in both cars,” said Makaula.

She confirmed that two suspects were arrested in Wentworth and the vehicle was recovered. The suspects were detained at Umbilo SAPS where police are investigating several cases of carjacking and the possession of an unlicensed firearm.