Know what can make you a possible target
To try and prevent becoming a victim of crime, you need to know what makes you a target in the first place
The time of the year when the crime statistics spike is upon us, and as some of us often do not know where our target sign is placed, we still fall victim to crime.
Earlier this year, the police released their annual 2018/ 2019 crime stats which indicated that murders increased by 3,4 per cent, sexual offences increased by 19 per cent, commercial crimes increased by 14,4 per cent, and robbery increased from 2 per cent to 8 per cent.
To try and prevent becoming a victim of crime, you need to know what makes you a target in the first place. Individuals are seen as easy targets by criminals when they:
•Lacking confidence
A criminal usually victimises individuals who appear weak or not confident. The individual’s body language will indicate that, through signs like looking down while walking with hands in the pockets. They expect you to put up less of a fight.
•Unaccompanied
A person on his or her own is seen as an easy target as there is only one victim, and criminals operate in groups of two or more. One individual will also feel threatened and out-numbered against more than two and is not likely to fight back. Try to always be accompanied by family or friends to lower the risk of being a possible target.
•Have observable valuables
Criminals will observe individuals to see if they can spot any valuables they could steal. For example, using a public ATM is a major indicator that you are carrying cash. Criminals will observe and find their gap to strike when you expect it least. Avoid ATMs with one way in and out, or that are located in dimly lit or obscured spaces as these are ripe environments for criminals to strike.
•Unaware of surroundings
When you are unaware of your surroundings, you will find it difficult to tell when you might become victim to a crime. Criminals will target victims who appear lost, disoriented or unsure as they are distracted and not aware of the suspicious behaviour around them.
•Distracted
Cellphones are one of the biggest distractions in public places. When you’re not paying attention to your environment, even an inexperienced criminal will notice and take advantage.
Be aware of strangers following you in public places. If you spot the same person near you over a period of time, go to your nearest security person, or join a group of people.
Always be aware of your surroundings when you are driving. If you notice a car following you, head to your nearest police station. Be aware when driving into your neighbourhood. If you spot a car that you do not recognise in the area and that looks out of place, drive past your house, and head to the nearest security company or guard, or call the police to come out and investigate. When driving at night, take the roads you know well, travel in groups and try to drive on well-lit roads.
