Following an increase in the number of theft out of motor vehicle cases reported, Edenvale SAPS urged community members to be aware of what is left in plain sight in their vehicles.
Edenvale Police Station’s communication officer Warrant Officer Jacob Mashile told community members not to leave valuables in their vehicles while shopping.
He also told motorists to prepare for their journey.
ALSO READ: SAPS strengthens ties with allies
“This can be done by packing all of your valuables where they’re safest, before leaving home or work,” said Mashile.
According to Mashile, the crimes are being committed in parking areas and at some shopping complexes and malls.
“This sort of crime is a concern as people tend to become victims by leaving their valuables in full view of potential criminals,” said Mashie.
“They should rather hide their belongings inside of their vehicle.
“The community is requested to not leave valuable items such as laptops, cameras, cellphones, and clothes on their car seats or where criminals can easily see them,” said Mashile.
He said the sectors most affected by the crime include Sector One and Sector Four.
Sector One includes the Avenues between Horwood Street and Hendrick Potgieter Street, Elma Park, Dunvegan, Dowerglen and Marais Steyn Park, the Edenvale Hospital and Sizwe Hospital.
ALSO READ: Edenvale SAPS issues warning as number of fraud cases becomes a concern
Sector Four includes Greenstone, Emerald Estate, Bushwillow Park and Greenstone Hill.
Mashile requested that the community work together with the police and report any suspicious activities.
He explained that perpetrators committing these crimes are often opportunists.
“Residents must try hard not to create an opportunity for criminals to commit a crime.”
The police station also recommended that shopping centres consider installing cameras in the parking lots.
Mashile said Edenvale SAPS management and its stakeholders are working hard to curb the crime.
