Springs SAPS record spike in car theft

The Springs SAPS has warned motorists to take proactive measures to safeguard their vehicles against theft.

The warning comes after the police noted an alarming increase in motor vehicle theft, which rose between June 1 and 18 in the Springs area.

The warning stems from vehicle thefts in these areas:
• In Springs Central, a Toyota Etios was stolen from the parking lot next to a local sports bar.

• A Mazda 323 was stolen from the parking lot opposite a local butchery and another from a shopping centre in Geduld.

• A Toyota Hilux was stolen on Second Street.

• A Ford Bantam was stolen on the corner of 11th Street and 6th Avenue.

• In Selection Park, a Nissan NP200 was stolen from the victims’ home by a man pretending to be a mechanic.

• In Selcourt, a trailer was stolen from the victim’s home inside the garage. Another trailer was stolen in Petersfield from inside the owner’s yard.

• In Strubenvale, a Toyota Hilux was stolen opposite a primary school.

• In Payneville, a Nissan NP200 was stolen from the victim’s yard.

• In Persida, a Toyota Corolla was stolen after the owner left it idling to go into the post office.

• A Toyota Fortuner was stolen outside a school in Geduld and another at a hospital in Pollak Park.

• A Ford Ranger was stolen outside a supermarket in Geduld and another in Pollak Park.

ALSO READ: Major tariff adjustments approved in CoE budget

Police spokesperson Sergeant Themba Tshabalala urged motorists to remain vigilant and be aware of their surroundings, particularly when entering and parking vehicles in public places.

“Motorists must take extra measures to secure their vehicles because thieves increasingly use high-end electronic devices to clone or decode ignition systems.”

He recommended owners of older model vehicles park in well-lit areas near surveillance cameras to ensure the cameras capture the potential suspects.

Tshabalala also advised residents to stay alert for suspicious vehicles circling their neighbourhoods and suggested additional security measures, such as using chain locks or wheel clamps for trailers.

The SAPS has called for community co-operation, encouraging residents to be vigilant and report suspicious activities to help combat the rising wave of vehicle thefts in Springs.

ALSO READ: Beware of scammers demanding money to stop power disconnections