Cops’ Pretoria warning

Pretoria police are appealing to residents to be alert when visiting Church Square in the Pretoria central business district (CBD) and adjacent streets in the Pretoria to avoid falling prey to criminals who will increase their presence during the festive season.

The police are specifically warning men to stay clear of “easy ladies of the night”.

“Men need to be vigilant of easy ladies at the night clubs. They are not out there seeking entertainment or love, but rather to drug you, rob you of all valuables and take off with your car,” said police spokesperson Captain Augustinah Selepe.

She said because women are the easiest prey when it comes to smash and grabs, they should avoid keeping their valuables on their car seats.

The public is also warned to stay away from bogus prophets as there is a group of men who are operating within the CBD who will claim to know you and trick you into believing they can help you get money and improve your luck.

“They will tell you things about your personal life, family and future. In some instances they will give you a stone and point out an intersection where you must drop that stone. “Or they might ask you to go and buy water and then disappear with your belongings and money,” Selepe said.

She said during this time of the year, many people in the city visit taverns, pubs, parks and night clubs. At the same time, the criminals are also out in numbers to rob people.

In an effort to keep the citizens safe and to keep crime down in the CBD, police are intensifying operations in identified hot spots and are conducting awareness campaigns at malls.

Criminals operate in the following streets, areas and malls: Thabo Sehume, Madiba, Steve Biko, Bosman, Nana Sita and Sophie De Bruyn, Nelson Mandela, Madiba, Johannes Ramokgoase, Eeufees Roads, Bloed Street Mall, Bosman Station, Sammy Marks Square, inside Fountain Valley and other busy streets.

• Report any suspicious or criminal activities at your nearest police station or call crime stop on 08600-10111.

– virginiak@citizen.co.za

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