Over the last few months there has been a wave of armed robberies in shopping malls across South Africa.
According to the Consumer Goods Risk Initiative (CGRI), in the three years up to 2013 to 14, armed robberies at shopping malls showed a staggering increase from 274 to 665 (142 per cent).
Reports note that well-organised gangs of usually about four to five heavily armed criminals attack shops trading in goods such as jewellery, electronics, cell phones, jewellery and exclusive clothing.
According to 1st for Women Insurance’s Executive Head, Robyn Farrell, “Unfortunately, our sense of safety in shopping centres has been eroded. It’s exceptionally traumatic to be caught up in one of these incidents and not many people know what to do,” says Farrell.
1st for Women Insurance provide guidelines of what to do in the case of a mall robbery:
• Stay alert. Always be aware of what is going on around you. Particularly if you’re in a place that could potentially be held up such as a bank or a small store.
• Avoid high-target stores around opening and closing times.
• Decide how and where you and your friends or family will reunite in the event of a robbery – remember that you may not have your cell phone.
• Don’t confront anyone – robbers are likely to be armed.
• Avoid withdrawing large sums of money in a bank and carry little cash on you.
• If you notice suspicious activity don’t go near it. Report it discreetly to the management, the information desk or security staff and then calmly leave.
• Always signify your intention to the robbers to cooperate. Avoid eye contact. Respond promptly to requests and do not act aggressively.
• Should robbers demand personal items, hand it over immediately – your life is worth more than your valuables.
• If you are near an exit and it is safe to do so, leave the mall immediately. Phone 10111 for help if you can and give as much information as possible.
• Your chances of surviving are increased if you stay calm and don’t do anything to set off the volatility of the robbers.
• If you can, try to help other people in the same predicament to stay calm.
• Seek help or counselling for posttraumatic stress after the event. 1st for Women Insurance does provide trauma assistance with all car, buildings and home contents insurance policies, which can be utilised after an event like this.
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Mall robberies – What to do, not do
