The end of January in the affluent suburb of Sandton has been nothing but mayhem for some of its residents.
This week alone three luxury watches were snatched by perpetrators and while two escaped with their lives, one victim was not so lucky.
A case of robbery and murder was opened at Sandton Police Station last week Sunday, 26 January. Spokesperson for the station, Captain Granville Meyer confirmed the incident. “It is alleged that the 72-year-old victim was robbed as he pulled in his driveway. The suspects pulled up behind him in a white VW SUV and approached the victim,” said Meyer.
He added that they then robbed him of his watch valued at R1 million. During the scuffling, the victim was shot.
“After the incident, the victim went to a nearby hospital, where he died of the shooting.”
The matter is still under investigation.
Meyer added that robbery is one of South Africa’s most serious and dangerous crimes committed in today’s times. “A robber commits a hold-up because he or she believes that their profit will be worth the risk. By decreasing the possible profit and increasing the risk of apprehension, potential victims can reduce their chance of becoming a target.”
The second watch was allegedly stolen in Hyde Park while a couple was pulling into a driveway on 6th Street. A case of armed robbery was opened at Bramley Police Station. Spokesperson for Bramley police Captain Molefe Mogodi said, “I can only confirm that the victim was robbed of valuable items and the police are investigating.”
It was alleged that the items stolen were a Rolex watch and an engagement ring. Security footage seen by the Sandton Chronicle shows that while waiting for the gate of the complex to open, two men came up behind them in a grey Toyota Corolla. They allegedly robbed the duo at gunpoint and made a quick getaway.
Meyer explained that remaining vigilant is a core factor to remaining safe in South Africa. “Like any big city throughout the world, Sandton has its share of crime. We urge you to take appropriate precautions for your personal safety,” he said.
The third incident took place at a shopping centre in Morningside. According to Meyer, the victim claimed he was held at gunpoint while waiting for the boomgate to open at the exit of the shopping centre. Meyer said, “Two men got out of a white VW Golf 5 and pointed firearms at him. The suspects demanded cash and jewellery from the victim.
“They then robbed him and his wife of their watches, jewellery and cash with an estimated value of R250 000.”
With a scourge of these robberies, the Sandton Police Station provided the following suggestions:
Crime combating tips:
- Keep valuables in a locked place and do not carry large sums of money, wear expensive jewellery, or display valuable items such as cameras when you walk on the streets or go to shopping centres or restaurants.
- Unless you have an immediate need for it, do not carry your ID/passport with you on a daily basis – a copy of the front page should be adequate.
If someone tries to rob you:
- Don’t resist. Give up your property – don’t give up your life.
- Report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims.
Related articles:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/243579/stay-safe-smash-grab-prevention-tips/
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/247079/sure-report-crime-police/
