Polokwane sees spike in vehicle remote control jamming cases
Vehicle remote control jamming involves criminals using signal-jamming devices to prevent car central locking and alarm systems from activating, leaving vehicles vulnerable to theft and vandalism.
POLOKWANE -The city is experiencing a surge in vehicle remote control jamming incidents, with 21 cases reported just last week.
This alarming trend has prompted concerns about vehicle safety, according to Rudolph Phaswana of the Polokwane Community Policing Forum (CPF).
During the past week, 12 incidents were recorded in the central business district (CBD) and nine in other areas within Polokwane’s policing precinct, Phaswana confirmed.
Vehicle remote control jamming involves criminals using signal-jamming devices to prevent car central locking and alarm systems from activating, leaving vehicles vulnerable to theft and vandalism.
In response, Phaswana urged community members to exercise utmost caution and vigilance to protect their vehicles. “We advise you to double-check that your vehicle is securely locked, refrain from leaving any valuables in plain sight,” he said.
The local CPF also stressed the importance of reporting any suspicious activity or behaviour immediately.
This crime has been on the rise in recent years and has seen a sudden spike in daily occurrences.
Polokwane Observer witnessed an incident in Market Street late last year where shoppers confronted a man pretending to own a vehicle he had jammed.
The actual driver and a passenger had parked and locked the vehicle before rushing into a nearby pharmacy, where shoppers observed the suspect’s actions.
A case was subsequently opened against the suspect.
Residents are advised to stay alert and report any suspicious behaviour to help combat this growing threat.
