Brighton Beach Police urge vigilance as carjackings increase
According to the police, there are between six and eight perpetrators who commit the crimes during the day and night.
BRIGHTON Beach Police urge residents to remain alert and take precautions after receiving several reports of carjackings in the area in recent weeks.
Captain Louise le Roux, the station’s spokesperson, said there have been several incidents reported within the Brighton Beach policing precinct, which include Clairwood and The Bluff.
Also read: Carjacking incidents on the rise, Brighton Beach SAPS warns
“The incidents occur during the day and night, and there are usually between six and eight perpetrators. We are now urging residents to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions,” she said.
Le Roux added that residents are urged to report those with criminal intentions anonymously to the SAPS Crime Stop Tip Off-line on 08600 10111 or register on the MySAPS App on *134*10111#.
“Together, we can achieve safer communities.”
Le Roux offers a few guidelines to minimise becoming a victim:
• Ensure that your vehicle is well-maintained to prevent it from breaking down. Ensure sufficient water, oil and fuel levels daily.
• Always keep your mobile device fully charged, close to you, and switched on but out of sight when travelling.
• If you are travelling to an unknown destination, plan your route before departure and use a GPS or map. Also, know the location of the nearest police station. Make inquiries prior to your departure as to the hotspot areas and avoid those areas.
• When you enter your vehicle, lock the doors, wind up windows and buckle up. Locking up and winding up will prevent a hijacker from having the opportunity to force a gun through your window or being able to open your door and point it to your head. Also, if you are buckled up, you can reverse safely and drive into something that can cause a commotion and attract attention to your situation.
• Leave enough room between your car and the one in front to avoid being boxed in.
• Remain in your car if it is hit from behind by another vehicle. Inspect any damage only once you are sure it is not a hijack attempt.
• Attract the attention of other motorists or pedestrians if you think you are in danger. You can use the hooter, flash your lights or put your emergency lights on.
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