City increases patrols following reports of “Rape taxi’ and gives tips
Commuters to be vigilant.
The City of Johannesburg will be increasing Metro Police patrols in the hope of catching the now notorious taxi rapists.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety and Security, Michael Sun said “the City has noted with alarm the recent reports by residents of Soweto and surrounding areas of instances where unsuspecting women are picked up by minibus taxis and then raped and robbed inside the vehicle.
“Since a woman come forward yesterday, 23 March, recounting how she was raped at gunpoint in the back of a taxi in front of her 10-year-old son, many other people have come forward accounting similar incidents,” said Sun.
“According to the Gauteng Police, a white and a grey Toyota Quantum taxi and suspects have been identified. In an effort to protect our residents from these heinous crimes, especially our women and children, the City will increase its Metro Police patrols and conduct stop-and-searches in and around the Soweto area. Whilst it is difficult to determine who are would-be criminals, the visible policing and stop-and-searches will act as a deterrent for potential criminal behaviour.
“We urge residents to be alert at all times and report any suspicious vehicles or activities to the Metro Police on (011) 375 5911,” he concluded.
Sun has conveyed the following safety tips:
1. Be alert and always look inside the vehicle for suspicious occupants before getting in.
2. Look for a valid taxi operating permit displayed on the vehicle.
3. If possible, tell a friend or relative of the make, colour and registration number of the vehicle you will be traveling in and convey your travel plan if you are travelling alone.
4. Ask a friend to ride with you if you are not feeling well or if you have consumed alcohol. Don’t allow yourself to become a vulnerable target.
5. Don’t be “sweet talked” to get into a vehicle, no matter how cheap the fare is.
6. Always be cautious and avoid showing money or expensive jewellery in public.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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