Take caution with increasing follow-home robberies afoot

JOHANNESBURG – With the new year comes a reminder to stay safe as well as an update on the crime happenings in the suburbs.

February 18, 2020

Khomotso Makgabutlane 2 minutes read

Be cautious of being followed home. Photo: Stock Image

Fourways residents are urged to keep their guards up following an increase in follow-home robberies.

Fidelity ADT urged residents in the Fourways, Douglasdale, Chartwell, Magaliessig and Midrand areas to stay vigilant in the new year due to an incident that took place which lead to a victim being shot in the arm.

Armed Robbery at entrance of Dainfern ridge.
Seems to be follow me home robbery from Dainfern Square.
Victim shot in the arm @makesasafe #dainfern #crime #robbery @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/kppKUYvjdg

— BlueHawkTactical (@Bluehawktactic1) January 7, 2020

The statement reported on a ‘dangerous gang committing violent crimes’ in the area, urging residents to remain aware of their surroundings.

Fidelity ADT community development manager, Danny Maringa said at first, you might not even realise you are being followed as ‘criminals are so professional at what they do’.

“Suspects appear to be on the lookout for smart watches and jewellery and residents are once again reminded not to venture out where possible with any flashy jewellery or expensive watches,” said Maringa.

Criminals spotting at restaurants, in shopping malls, and parking areas are a big concern which results in follow-home robberies and can escalate into hijacking or house robbery, according to Maringa.

Take note of the following tips in order for residents to stay safe:

Keep expensive watches covered and avoid wearing flashy jewellery when out and about
Always be aware and vigilant of your surroundings
When leaving a restaurant or shopping centre be on the lookout for anyone that could possibly be following you
If you believe you are being followed drive to the closest police station or security provider guard house if there is any doubt
Try to keep as calm as possible and stay focused on getting to a safe place
Do not try and communicate with that vehicle in any way
Slow down – it is harder to follow somebody that is driving slowly but just keep moving
Turn your radio down so you are fully aware of your surroundings
Put you headlights on bright and put your hazards on, day or night as you want to attract as much attention as possible and scare away the would-be hijackers
Do not go home – don’t show them where you live
Head for a busy place if possible like 24-hour garages, hospital, police station, etc where it is more difficult to follow you in and where there may be surveillance cameras.