Police warn of increase in vehicle theft in Wentworth
The police urge vehicle owners to adhere to the following tips and warnings when parking their vehicles in order to minimise the potential threat of vehicle theft in and around the Wentworth and Merebank policing precinct.
WENTWORTH police have noted a concerning increase in the theft of motor vehicles within the policing precinct.
This is according to Wentworth police spokesman, Captain Mbuso Gumede who appeals to the community to be vigilant at all times and avoid parking their vehicles in isolated and dangerous areas. “The vehicles that we have noticed to be most affected or stolen are the Hyundai H100 trucks, Kia trucks 2.7 and several Toyota sedan models. These vehicles are stolen in broad daylight and during the early hours of the morning between 12am to 5am. The vehicles have been stolen while parked outside residential areas, alongside the pavement or verge. Others were stolen at shopping mall parking lots.
The police urge vehicle owners to adhere to the following tips and warnings when parking their vehicles in order to minimise the potential threat of vehicle theft in and around the Wentworth and Merebank policing precinct.
- Always park in a well-lit area and do not park your vehicle in isolated areas or where it is out of sight.
- Activate your alarm system at all times before leaving your vehicle.
- Ensure that your doors are securely locked and check door handles before walking off.
- Know your vehicle registration number and memorise it in the case that you have to report theft of your vehicle to the police.
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended even if you are near it, as carjacking can happen in split seconds.
- Installing a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel or brakes can minimise the chances of your vehicle being stolen.
- Do not leave keys lying on tables near windows or where they could be easily accessed by a thief.
- Do not leave valuable items such as laptops, handbags, cellphones, flat-screen televisions or clothing on your car seats or where they can be easily visible. Rather keep such items in the boot.
The police have tasked the members to increase the patrols in affected areas and will also rely on information given by reliable sources to deal with this theft of motor vehicle scourge. The community is also urged to assist the police in identifying or supplying information that will result in arresting suspects who are committing the crime mentioned. Community members who provide helpful information will remain anonymous.
Wentworth police can be contacted on 031-451-6240/6241/6242.
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