Spike in theft out of motor vehicle in Silverton, warns CPF

The Silverton CPF have warned residents to be more cautious as motor vehicle-related crimes as well as armed business robberies have spiked in the east precinct.

CPF chairperson Sidney Gordon said the forum had noticed that crimes such as theft out of motor vehicle were occurring in neighbouring areas of Silverton such as Weavind Park, La Montagne, Equestria as well as Nellmapius.

Gordon warned people should refrain from leaving valuable goods lying around in vehicles.

He added people needed to be aware of their surroundings.

Gordon said vehicles parked outside schools, small businesses and shopping centres as well as fuel stations are targeted for theft.

He advised residents to park in a well-lit area.

“Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit area, preferably where there are security cameras or in a high-traffic location. Thieves are less likely to target a vehicle in highly visible areas,” he said.

In the 2023/24 third quarter police crime stats, Silverton recorded a 6.5% rise in theft out of or from motor vehicles.

The station registered 82 cases, from the 77 in the same period in 2022.

He said apart from the theft out of motor vehicles, domestic violence is also on the rise.

“Domestic violence is rising sharply in Nellmapius. Unfortunately, the police do not have the manpower to be able to put a hand on (sic) this issue.”

He said the newly appointed Silverton police station commander will help tackle crime in the area.

“We have been without a station commander for about six months, but with the new one in, we will be working together to try to tackle crime.”

Gordon said a lot of armed robberies have been reported.

“Businesses are robbed but we plan to engage business owners to work with us to come up with ways to protect their businesses and their homes,” he said.

He said the CPF is dedicated to working hand-in-hand with police and the community to address safety concerns, strengthen partnerships, and foster a culture of collaboration and trust.

“These include promoting community policing initiatives, supporting neighbourhood watch programmes, and organising crime awareness campaigns to empower residents with knowledge and skills to protect themselves.”

Here are some safety tips:

– Lock your vehicle: Always remember to lock or close your car doors and windows when parking. This simple step will deter many opportunistic thieves.

– Instal security devices: Improve the security of your vehicle by installing a car alarm, steering wheel locks, or a tracking device. These devices can deter thieves and increase your chances of recovering your vehicle if it is stolen.

– Be cautious while refuelling: When refuelling your vehicle, do not leave it unattended. Thieves tend to target vehicles left momentarily unattended at fuel stations.

– Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when leaving or approaching your vehicle. If you notice any suspicious individual, report them immediately.

– Use secure parking: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a secure area. Such a spot usually has surveillance cameras and security, reducing the risk of theft.

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