The Germiston SAPS warned residents of a new modus operandi used by criminals in public spaces to steal, rob and scam their victims.

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Constable Maxwell Mabunda, Germiston SAPS spokesperson, shared some safety tips:

Public transport commuters

“Recently more cases of people being kidnapped by criminals posing as private transport drivers escalated.

“They rob people of their belongings and dump the victims in isolated areas,” said Mabunda.

“Customers must share their ride details with someone they trust before getting into a car via SMS or WhatsApp,” said Mabunda.

“Sharing your ride details will enable the authorities to trace the driver in an event where the customer is faced with similar events.”

Drivers

Mabunda urged private transport drivers to be careful when picking up a client as there have been several complaints where drivers were hijacked.

“The criminals use the same method they use to hijack truck drivers on the road.

“They pretend to be pointing at something under your car. When you stop they stop too and pull a gun on you.

“Sometimes they work with women. The woman requests a ride and later asks you to make a stop because she wants to use the bathroom,” said Mabunda.

“When driving never offers a lift to strangers on the side of the road.

“At times a woman with a baby would stand by the side of the road begging for help.

“Once you stop to offer a lift, men would jump into your car with firearms.

Malls

“People pretend to be working for banking institutions.

“They wear uniforms and approach people inside the mall selling them new services like insurance or new deals the bank might have.

“They go through your app and transfer all your money.

“It’s advisable that you do not let strangers offer you any assistance. Rather go to a branch. At the ATM do not ask for help from any strangers. Avoid counting your money after making a withdrawal.

“At the shops, there are people who claim that they will get you what you need at a stock prize. Don’t fall for it. It’s a scam.”

Phone

“Avoid walking with your phone in your hand. It attracts bad attention. Never answer your phone in a crowd, they will snatch it and disappear into the crowd.

“No bank will call you to confirm your banking details over the phone. Rather go to the branch for any updates.”