Cellphone snatching on the rise in Sinoville, local CPF warns

Cellphone snatchers are back in Sinoville and targeting unsuspecting innocent members of the public, the local CPF has warned.

According to the CPF spokesperson Lizette du Plooy, cellphone snatching typically occurs while the victim is distracted or otherwise not paying attention to their surroundings.

She said there has been a recent uptick in reports of cellphone snatchings in the precinct.

The CPF has been informed of this trend through various channels and is taking the matter very seriously.

“We are committed to working with the community to address this issue and ensure the safety of all residents,” said Du Plooy.

Du Plooy said all residents are urged to be aware of this threat and take appropriate measures to protect themselves, such as remaining vigilant and avoiding distraction in public spaces.

“Cellphone snatchers often target people in busy areas, such as shopping malls, and public transportation hubs, or while busy on the phone and other high-traffic locations on e-hailing service apps.

“It is important to minimise the usage of cellphones in busy areas where you can easily get distracted.”

The first quarter crime stats published by police minister Bheki Cele recently show petty crime and robberies on the rise in Sinoville with common robberies up 38.5%, the highest of the previous five quarters.

Common robberies would include cellphone snatching, and this poses a significant threat of escalation to even more serious crimes. The fact that the highest number of cases was recorded in almost 18 months, is evidence of the problem becoming more prevalent.

Du Plooy said people should immediately report cellphone theft and attempts to the SAPS.

She shared the following safety tips:

– Know your surroundings and try not to talk on your cellphone in open spaces.
– Look, listen and pay attention when walking in busy or isolated places.
– Do not put on your headphones as it calls attention to you.
– Keep your cellphone out of sight and avoid flaunting it in public.
– If you must use your phone in public, keep it close to your body and keep a firm grip on it.
– If you are approached by a stranger, keep your phone hidden and remain alert.
– If you are approached by a thief, do not resist and give up your phone immediately. Your safety is more important than your belongings.

Sinoville CPF 24-hour sector emergency numbers:

– Sector 1: 071 509 6830 (Annlin, Wonderboom, Sinoville and Magalieskruin).
– Sector 2: 079 025 5001 (Montana Park, Montana Gardens and Montana Agricultural Holdings – North of Sefako Makghato Drive).
– Sector 3 & 4: 074 133 4353 (Doornpoort)

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