Hijacking at Bel Air Shopping Centre prompts ward councillor, centre management and security company to improve security

Investigations are underway following the hijacking of a woman at Bel Air Shopping Centre on 2 October.

According to Dalu Cele, ward councillor for the area, the woman was hijacked at the mall and pushed into the back of her vehicle. The suspects then drove off with the woman in her car. They allowed her to get out of the car a while later and she made her way to the Douglasdale Police Station. The police opened a case of car theft.

Cele said this is not the first time he has been alerted to crime at the shopping centre.

“Residents have spoken of several incidents [of] crime at the centre. It is becoming a common occurrence,” he added. In an attempt to tackle the increase in crime at the shopping centre, Cele, the centre management of Bel Air Shopping Centre and the security company assigned to protect the mall will have a meeting on 9 October to find ways to address the matter.

Cele explained that they will investigate potential security mechanisms that can be put in place to improve the security of shoppers.

Christo de Lange, the centre manager, said they have hired a security company to investigate the matter.

“Fidelity is on site and is investigating the matter,” he said. Cele offered some advice to residents: “I would advise motorists at the centre to remain vigilant at all times and make sure that they lock their vehicles.” He added that they should be aware of their surroundings and know where security personnel are at the centre.

At the time of going to print, Douglasdale Police station spokesperson Captain Mpho Kgosoane was not available for comment. The report will be updated once a police statement is provided.