DURBAN North SAPS has warned residents of a spike in theft out of motor vehicles in uMhlanga and Durban North where criminals syndicates are using remote jammers. The warning comes after eight cases were reported in the past week alone.
According to national crime statistics, there are on average, more than 800 cases of theft out of motor vehicles a year in the Durban North policing precinct.
Chairman of the Durban North/Umhlanga CPF Haden Searles, said in the past the forum had done campaigns alerting residents and visitors to the dangers of remote jamming.
Below is an example of a remote jamming incident from 2016 and shows how the criminals work:
“We may look at this again when we hand out pamphlets which acts as a checklist on what to do once you’ve parked your vehicle. We may even look at hosting demonstrations on how remote jamming works to educate residents and visitors. The other bit of advice I would offer residents is to take their valuables with them if they are going to shopping centres or to a restaurant or shop.
“The syndicates make use of spotters who keep a lookout for soft, easy targets. Don’t be blasé about your surroundings and ensure your vehicle is correctly locked. Physically check the handles of your vehicle as awareness is key. The other mistake residents make is when they arrive at a destination they get out of the vehicle and put the items into the boot, this is where once again the spotters pick their targets,” he said.
For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram