With those attending university in the area and falling victim to crimes inside and outside of campus, spokesperson for Brixton Police Station Jeanette Backhoff offered safety tips.
Backhoff offered the following advice:
- Do not walk in public while displaying any valuables
- Avoid wearing earphones while walking or carrying a laptop or luggage, it makes you an easy target
- Be careful of falling victim to scammers on the Internet
- Before transferring money for accommodation to a landlord, make sure the residence actually exists by visiting the house and speaking to other occupants
- Walk in groups at night
- Do not approach vehicles that drive up next to you. There have been instances where a scammer presents himself as a priest or someone that offers you a job. Ignore them and walk to the nearest area with other people around. Robberies happen during the day
- Remember to activate your alarm before you leave the house
- Avoid sitting in a vehicle outside your residence. Rather go inside the house and when you are ready to leave make sure there is no other vehicle lingering around the area
- Always ensure that valuables and money are locked away in a safe place.
Details: Brixton Police Station 011 248 5520.
