With the Festive Season upon us, residents are warned to be vigilant of crime trends in their area, especially while out and about, and shopping.
The District Commissioner of Lejweleputswa Maj. Gen. Lerato Molale cautions residents and shoppers about crime trends during this Festive Season saying that criminals will use any opportunity that might arise. “Residents must be vigilant of their own safety and ensure that property and valuables are kept safely. Motorists are advised to keep their windows closed when approaching a robot and to be vigilant especially at night,” says Molale.
He warns residents when parking vehicles, to ensure that they are properly locked to avoid jam locking. “Make sure that handbags, laptops, expensive lumber jackets and cellphones are kept out of sight when parking or driving off,” says Molale.
People must park in paid parking areas where there are security guards. They must stop using a cellphone while driving, as this attracts opportunistic criminals to break windows and grab cellphones (smash and grab).
The police also advise that if you suspect that you are being followed, pass your home to a filling station or police station. While evading the pursuer note the colour, make of the vehicle, registration numbers, how many occupants and their description.
Shoppers must be vigilant on their shopping sprees.
“Do not allow anyone to prophecy over you because mostly it’s a scam. Do not wear expensive jewels while shopping. Try to use debit cards when making your festive season purchases. Do not carry large amounts of cash, and do not make cash withdrawals at ATM’s in full view of criminals,” says Capt. Stephen Thakeng, media liaison officer for the Lejweleputswa SAPS.
Thakeng warns public servants, especially women, about young foreign nationals posing as lovers. “They will ultimately cheat you of your hard earned cash and even your pension money,” he says.
Women must avoid going to taverns with cash, and do not carry large sums of cash at liquor premises. “Shebeens must be reported, so that they can be closed,” says Thakeng.
“We encourage residents to partner with the police through MySAPS App and Crime Stop number 08600 10111. They must report suspicious looking people or vehicles in the shopping malls, residential areas and industrial areas.
Reports can be done anonymously so that the police can thwart serious crime before it happens.
“This Festive Season, we have more boots on the ground to enhance police visibility,” concludes Molale.
