WITH an increase in armed robberies being reported in the Brighton Beach SAPS policing area, police have offered guidelines to reduce the risk of falling prey.
According to communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux, the area most affected is Jacobs and robberies have taken place during both day and night. She said a knife was used in most incidents, with a gun used occasionally.
“Perpetrators operate in teams of two to five men. In an isolated incident the perpetrators consisted of a woman who produced a firearm with a man as her accomplice,” said Capt Le Roux.
To safeguard the community, Capt Le Roux and Reservist Karmen Jenkins handed out 1,000 brochures on Friday, 3 July with guidelines on reducing risk.
Included in the brochures were the following safety recommendations:
- Walk near the curb on the side closest to and facing oncoming traffic. This decreases the risk of someone in a car coming from behind and grabbing you. It also gives you a better angle to see into doorways and alleys and a better path to escape if attacked.
- If you are visiting a new location, find out in advance the safest and quickest route prior to departure. Also ask for beacons along the way so you can make sure you are moving in the right direction.
- If you predominantly travel on foot, attach a whistle to your handbag or belt to which you have easy access. Blow short, yet loud breaths through your whistle, which will serve as an alarm and attract attention as a call for help.
- Always have a short peep over your shoulder, to make sure you are not being followed. If you suspect you are being followed, change direction, move towards a group of people or enter a shopping complex.
- Don’t walk in the street while intoxicated.
- Don’t walk in the street while texting, talking on your phone, or listening to music through headphones.
- Don’t use stairways. Rather use a public road.
- Avoid walking alone through parks.
Brighton Beach SAPS urges anyone with information on a crime to contact their nearest police station. Anonymous reports may also be made by visiting www.crimeline.co.za, SMSing 32211 or calling 08600-10111.
Brighton Beach SAPS management thanks Capt Le Roux and Reservist Jenkins for creating awareness on robbery prevention.
