At least 12 vehicles have been stolen in the Ballito and Salt Rock areas over the past three months, with high-end SUVs and bakkies the prime targets.
Head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, Charnel Hattingh, said incidents typically occur at night or during the early morning hours.
“Vehicles parked in residential areas are being targeted. In some cases, suspects are even derailing gates to gain access.”
She said Fidelity ADT has teamed up with the South African Police Service (Saps) and local Community Policing Forums (CPFs) to increase patrols and monitor the crime hotspots.
Hattingh advised residents to ensure their vehicles are equipped with functioning tracking devices and should be parked inside locked garages where possible. Where vehicles are parked outside, motion sensor lighting, electric fencing, or outdoor beams are recommended as extra deterrents.
Chairperson of the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch, Morne Steffens, confirmed the reports and urged residents to avoid leaving vehicles on pavements overnight.
“Criminals are sophisticated and can quickly disable tracking devices and alarms. If you must park outside, make sure it is within your view. Several vehicles have been stolen outside hotels and pubs in Ballito, so always lock and alarm your car to prevent remote jamming,” said Steffens.
He also suggested that residents consider using older security measures such as steering locks, which provide an additional layer of protection.
Umhlali police spokesperson captain Vinny Pillay added that some cars have been stolen from shopping malls, prompting a request for mall management to strengthen their security measures.
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