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Newcastle SAPS warns against ‘smash-and-grab’ crime
The police service issued hints and advice for motorists to keep themselves safe.
SAPS defines the term ‘smash-and-grab’ as follows: “Criminals smash the window or open an unlocked door and grab whatever they regard as of value.”
The police service has cautioned motorists to be vigilant whether one’s vehicle is moving or stationary:
- Lock all your doors and close all the windows. Thieves steal handbags and other valuables by opening car doors or even by breaking windows while your car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow-moving traffic.
- Don’t have bags, cell phones, briefcases or other valuables visible in the vehicle. Lock all valuables in the boot of your car or behind the seat if it is a bakkie.
- Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious-looking characters. Don’t hesitate to report them to the police.
- When approaching a red traffic light at night, slow down so you only reach it when it turns green and therefore do not need to stop.
- Be wary of people standing at traffic lights or intersections. They may be innocent, but perpetrators associate with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce. They may even fabricate a story that something is wrong with your window or convince you to open your window or exit 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 exit your vehicle to remove them. Immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite direction.
- Thieves target parking lots – 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 parked car is very dangerous.
- Always remove radios, CDs and devices if possible.
- 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.
ALSO READ: HOW TO: Avoid being a victim of carjacking – police provide safety tips
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