Fidelity ADT have flagged vehicle-related incidents as a growing cause of concern, particularly in the Bryanston and Sandton area.
Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications for Fidelity ADT said key areas of concern are at high-activity intersections particularly at the William Nicol, Grosvenor and Main Road intersection. There have also been reports at the corner of Peter place and Main in Sandton. In one instance, a motorist was driving home at approximately 19:30, at the corner if Peter Place & Main Rd, two men knocked on his window and pulled out a firearm, luckily he had enough space in front of him to drive away.
In the last 3 days there have been three reported incidents.
As we approach the festive season we expect to see more opportunistic crimes.
Just because there are many cars in an intersection, it does not mean you are safe. “Motorists are reminded to remain vigilant at all times.” says Hattingh.
Points to remember:
- Keep your boot locked at all times, otherwise it is very easy while you are parked in traffic for the criminals to just open your boot and grab and run.
- Keep valuables such as handbags, laptops, sports bags in the boot of your car.
- Keep off your phone at intersections and remain vigilant
- Lock all your doors and never open vehicle windows or doors for strangers.
- Avoid opening your windows or getting involved in discussions with street vendors or anyone handing out flyers.
- Be wary of people standing at intersections.
- If you encounter obstacles such as rocks or tyres do not get out of your vehicle to remove them; immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite direction.
- Leave a gap between you and the car in front of you to give you room to escape if you need to.
“If you are involved in an incident remember not to become aggressive or struggle for your possessions. Letting the criminal take your handbag or cell phone could save your life. What’s important is that you report the incident to the police as soon as possible. The SAPS rely on intelligence to manage hotspots and trends,” she concludes.