According to Honeydew Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs, there is an increase of smash-and-grab incidents around Honeydew precinct. “Some pleasant rides have been turned into nightmares by people who pounce on unsuspecting drivers. They smash the window or open the unlocked door and grab whatever they regard is of value,” explained Jacobs.
Hotspots currently identified by police include Christiaan de Wet Road traffic light intersections next to Clearwater Mall and on the bridge (over Hendrik Potgieter Road), N1 Highway and 14th Avenue intersection, and Hans Schoeman bridge that runs over the N1 Highway. She said drivers are mostly targeted during the morning and afternoon traffic.
Whether your vehicle is moving or stationary, bear the following in mind:
- Don’t leave your cellphone or other valuables where they are visible in the car. This will attract thieves who may break your car window.
- Lock all your doors and close all the windows. Thieves steal handbags and other valuables by opening car doors or even breaking windows while the car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow-moving traffic.
- Do not have bags and briefcases visible in the vehicle. Lock all valuables in the boot of your car or behind the seat if it is a bakkie.
- Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious-looking characters. Do not hesitate to report them to the police.
- When approaching the red traffic light at night, slow down so that you can only reach it when it turns green.
- Be wary of people standing at traffic lights or intersections. They may be innocent but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
- Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger.
- If you encounter obstacles in the road like rocks and tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them. Rather reverse and drive in the opposite direction.
- Thieves target car parks. Always park your car in attended parking lots.
- When parking at night, ensure that you always park in a well-lit area.
- Never sit in your vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings.
- Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is particularly dangerous.
- Always remove radios, CD or cassette players if possible.
- Never leave children alone in a vehicle, not even for a moment. Let them accompany you.
- Exercise safety while going about your activities.
Details: Honeydew Police Operational Room 011 801 8604.
