Vehicle owner outraged after vehicle theft
NORTH RIDING – A women whose vehicle was stolen at Northgate Shopping Centre on 20 June is taking the matter to the Security Council.
A woman whose Volkswagen Polo GTI was stolen at the parking lot at Northgate Shopping Centre on 20 June, is adamant that the incident occurred following a car guard’s negligence.
Nanbisha Prithbirag from North Riding claimed the incident took place in the vicinity of the guards.
According to her, a certain popular security company allegedly failed to cooperate with her.
“They should have notified the police immediately. At least my insurance appointed a private investigator,” she said.
She warns the public to be vigilant at all times when parking their vehicles at this shopping centre.
“The public must be aware that the individual car guards seemingly know what is happening and pretend as if nothing is happening,” she complained.
The shopping centre marketing manager, Natalie Berkhout, said the car guards working at the particular section noticed a vehicle had sped out of the parking hastily.
“The individual who stole the vehicle was in a hurry to leave, and there was unfortunately no possibility of stopping the vehicle. We do not expect our guards to put their lives in jeopardy,’” said Berkhout.
She added the centre had strict policies and procedures when reporting incidents.
“We may not report incidents to the SAPS on behalf of customers in such cases, particularly when an incident is presumed and not confirmed,” she explained.
She said there were innocent situations whereby shoppers sped out of parking areas, for numerous reasons. She also said that customers were responsible for reporting any incidents at their nearest police station.
“It is very unfortunate that such an incident took place and we endeavour to prevent such incidents,” added Berkhout.
Honeydew SAPS confirmed the case of theft of motor vehicle was opened. “The vehicle was circulated as stolen on all the systems. No suspects have been arrested as yet and the investigation is ongoing,” said Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs.
“Theft out of and of a motor vehicle is currently a concern and Honeydew SAPS appeals to all drivers of vehicles that when using a remote to stand next to your vehicle and make sure that the vehicle did indeed lock, as ‘jammers’ were being used to gain entrance into vehicles,” she added.
Details: Honeydew Police Station 011 801 8604; Northgate Shopping Centre 076 233 1532.
