How to survive armed robbery at restaurants

This after eight suspects assaulted restaurant patrons at Picolinos Fourways and stole money and valuables on 28 February.

According to Muthan, it is important to stay calm during an armed robbery and to follow the tips below:

•  Be observant of what is going on.
•  Do not make sudden movements when the robbery is taking place.
•  If you can, try to record the scene, but avoid being noticed.
•  If the perpetrators want to take something from you, do not resist, be compliant.
•  Try to motivate those around you to stay calm.

Berdou added, “Prevention is better than cure and it is important for families to go to places where there is CCTV footage.”

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Berdou advised that community members should:

•  Choose their restaurants carefully.
•  Try to choose restaurants where there is well-lit and guarded parking.
•  Take adequate money when eating out or shopping but avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you.
•  Try to avoid wearing expensive jewellery or family heirlooms.
•  If you find yourself in a robbery situation, cooperate and take note of the perpetrators.
•  Contact authorities as soon as the robbery is over.
•  Should the robbers start shooting, family members should get on the floor and stay on the ground until the police arrive.

“If you can, try to have the police’s contact details on speed dial or have a tracking programme on your phone to help locate it if stolen,” Berdou said.

“It is important to go for counselling if you are a victim of such a crime and, if possible, try to assist the police with enough information as possible.”

Details: 011 699 1300.

Also read 7 armed robbers hit Adidas store in Fourways Crossing

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