NEWCASTLE SAPS Corporate Communications Liaison Officer, Lizzy Arumugam, warned residents against opportunists who pounce on unsuspecting drivers.
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“They smash the window or open an unlocked door and grab whatever they regard as of value,” she said.
Whether your vehicle is moving or stationary, bear the following in mind:
– Lock all doors and keep the windows closed. Thieves steal handbags and other valuables by opening car doors or even by breaking windows while your car is stationary at a traffic light, or stuck in slow-moving traffic.
– Don’t leave bags, cellphones, briefcases or other valuables visible in the vehicle. Lock all values in the boot of your car.
– Be vigilant of suspicious-looking characters. Don’t hesitate to report them to the police.
– Be wary of people standing at traffic lights or intersections. They may be innocent but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce. They may even point to something being wrong with your vehicle or get you to open your window or get out of your vehicle.
– Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger.
– If you encounter obstacles in the road such as rocks or tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them. Immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite direction.
– Thieves target car parks. Always park your car in attended parking lots.
– When parking at night, ensure you always park in a well-lit area.
– Never sit in your vehicle without being fully conscious of your surroundings. Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is very dangerous.
– Always remove radios, CDs or cassette players, if possible.
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– Never leave any children alone in a vehicle, not even for a moment. Take them with you, wherever you go. Children often innocently allow access to your car and belongings to criminals and put themselves in danger
