In a recent public awareness notice, the Sandton CPF urged the community to be aware of pickpocketing and related vehicle theft at shopping centres.
According to the notice, the community policing forum noted that it had been made aware of recent incidents in which female shoppers were pickpocketed at shopping centres for their vehicle keys.
The vehicles were subsequently stolen from the car parks of the shopping centres.
“It has been reported that suspects either identify potential victims while the victims are entering shopping centres or follow the victims into the centres,” read the notice.
Victims are distracted by one or two suspects while another suspect removes the vehicle keys from the victim’s handbag or pocket.
“Victims only realise their vehicle has been stolen when they return to the car park.”
The Sandton CPF identified Sunninghill, Grayston and Woodmead as reported hotspots, however, incidents were not limited to these areas only.
Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to security or the police on 10111.
Related Article:
