According to Boksburg SAPS spokesperson, Lieut Mathanda Ngobese, police officers will be patrolling the streets in vans with an eye out for suspicious activity. Extra officers will be on foot inside and outside of the shopping centres to keep your shopping experience safe.
Ngobese admitted that it’s that time of year when police see an increase in robberies car break-ins and theft, perpetrated by criminals who need fast cash.
Crime is normally rampant at shopping centres and the Boksburg CBD, where foot traffic peaks.
“During this period of the year, shopping centres area among the major criminal targets, so we want to be visible and present,” explains Ngobese.
“Although extra officers will be out in force around the Boksburg SAPS policing precinct, we urge members of the public to be on their guard this holiday season.
“The patrols will provide a good deterrent, but residents also must do their part in being our eyes and ears.”
The Boksburg SAPS offers these safety tips:
n Never leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. Place them in the boot or hidden storage area prior to arriving at your destination, because thieves often watch drivers in parking lots to see where they store a valuable, wait for the vehicle to be unattended, and break the window and steal the valuables.
* Take note of anyone who may be following you, and don’t hesitate to call the police if someone is acting suspicious.
* Park in a well-lit area if you’re shopping in the evening.
* If you need to use an ATM, choose one that is located inside of a shopping centre or in a well-lit location. Also, make sure you know who and what is going on around you while using the machine.
* When in public spaces, know where your valuables such as cellphone, wallet and others are at all times, and never leave valuables unattended.
* Work with your neighbours to keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles or people who may be in the area to commit crime. Report all suspicious activity and get license numbers and descriptions of individuals.
