Hot zone for cold muggers

Residents who use Suid Street regularly say muggings have become a major threat in the area.

This was confirmed by Polokwane police spokesperson, Capt Ntobeng Phala, who said that Suid Street is a high-risk area.

According to Phala, three to four muggings are reported weekly.

Suid Street is a “hot zone” for muggings due to two factors, the open fields next to the street and the Flora Park Dam, he said, “these features provide easy hiding places for criminals”.

A 16-year-old boy found himself in trouble while riding his bicycle down Suid Street on Monday morning.

He was accosted by two men wearing balaclavas who forced him to stop and demanded his cell phone. He says they ran away in the direction of the Flora Park Dam after mugging him.

Hannelie Kruger was mugged in Suid Street last month while she was jogging. She says the robber demanded her MP3-player and, after she handed over the device, he pushed her to the ground and ran in the direction of the Flora Park Dam.

Phala said the Polokwane police have increased their visibility in the area. He called on the community to be more cautious and to avoid dangerous situations.

He says it was important to be aware of your surroundings when running or cycling, especially at crossings and poorly lit areas.

To avoid muggings altogether is the first step in keeping safe.

“Avoid being alone in the street or on public transport between 20:00 and 02:00 as this is a popular time for muggings to take place.

“Travel or go running and cycling in a group of at least two to three people. Keep to well lit areas where there are other people around.

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“Make sure that your valuables are hidden and secured, as well. Keep things like cell phones, cameras, and personal music players out of sight and out of temptation.”

“If you feel you are particularly at risk of assault or mugging, you may want to consider taking a self defence class. Numerous urban areas offer self defence courses at minimal cost. You can learn basic ways to defend yourself as well as the best way to carry yourself on the street to project a confident, secure image,” says Shukokai instructor, Marcia van Niekerk.

Phala says residents should take note of their environment while being mugged. “Make a note of your mugger’s distinguishing features. Try to remember what he or she is wearing, as well as hair colour, eye colour and any distinctive tattoos, scars, or abnormalities. If you can estimate height and weight, try to do so.

“As soon as you have reached a safe area, get in contact with the local police to make a report. The more details you can provide, the easier it will be to catch the thief.”

Phala encourages the public to get to know the police’s sector managers near them and to report muggings immediately to increase the police’s chances of catching these criminals.