The Honeydew police would like to warn the community that they have noted an increase in vehicle-related crimes. Honeydew police spokesperson Captain Balan Muthan said that these crimes relate to motor vehicle theft, hijacking, and theft out of motor vehicles near public areas.
“Theft out of the motor vehicle has still been a problem and drivers are urged not to leave any property inside the vehicle or in the boot. These crimes very often take place near shopping centres and their car parks, and there has been an increase in crime during the daytime,” said Muthan.
Muthan offered the following safety tips to help motorists avoid hijacking and theft out of their motor vehicles:
- One must remain wary of people situated at traffic lights or intersections (also during peak traffic). Perpetrators have a history of positioning themselves next to someone else who is innocent while waiting for an opportunity to pounce. They may even point to something being wrong with your vehicle to get you to open your window or get out of your vehicle.
- When driving, be familiar with your environment and keep alert to anything around you that is out of the ordinary.
- Some cars lock automatically but double-check your car by trying to open it by hand to see if it’s locked.
- In traffic, try to stop a few metres from the car in front of you to have space for a quick getaway if an incident happens.
- If you suspect that you are being followed, keep moving while monitoring the car behind you and drive to your nearest police station or public space.
- Do not respond to people indicating to you that something is wrong with your car.
- When approaching your driveway lookout for suspicious cars or people next to your house.
- Ensure that all your mirrors are adjusted to give you an optimal view around your car.
- Make sure you lock all the door before you drive off.
- Laptops, bags, cell phones, briefcases or other valuables must never be kept visible on the seats of the vehicle – at any time.
- Children should never be left alone in the vehicle – not even for a moment. They should be taken with you, wherever you go.
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