Vehicle theft remains a big concern
HONEYDEW - Your vehicle is one of your valuable assets which can make it an easy target for criminals- warns Honeydew Police Spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs.
According to Honeydew Police Spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs, theft out of and of motor vehicles at shopping centres and malls, is a serious concern to them as the police.
“We hold regular meetings with different security companies to address this crime,” said W/O Jacobs.
She highlights that a criminal needs only a few minutes to break into or steal a vehicle.
She provides safety tips that she believe will help to prevent car theft, whether at home or at the shops.
n When parking your car, ensure that you park your vehicle in a safe place that is well lit. “If you can, park your vehicle behind locked gates or in the garage,” W/O Jacobs said. The most common place where vehicles are stolen is in the street outside your home.
n Have a proper security system installed in your vehicle. “Install a tracker, immobiliser and alarm system and always remember to activate your alarm system and other security equipment at all times.”
n Ensure that your vehicle is locked and all windows are properly closed as this could also hamper criminals in stealing your car or out of your car. “Whether at home or in a public place, before leaving your vehicle ensure that the vehicle is properly locked.” She said when using a remote locking device, stand next to your vehicle and make sure that the vehicle has indeed locked. “Do not walk away and only press the button and accept that the vehicle did lock, as ‘jammers’ are being used to gain entrance into your vehicle,” Jacobs emphasised.
n Leaving valuables in your vehicle is not a safe thing to do. “Do not leave your laptop, cellphone, handbag or any other property in the boot of the vehicle when parking the vehicle; take it with you at all times. Also remove your Garmin device when parking your vehicle.”
She warned that community members should be alert and on the lookout for suspicious persons in the area when parking their vehicles. In conclusion, she said residents must always know their vehicle’s registration number so that a lookout can be given in case of theft.
Details: Honeydew Police Station Operations room 011 801 8613/14/15.
