Police in the Helderberg have issued a warning to the public anticipating an increase in motor-vehicle thefts and theft of items from vehicles during the upcoming festive season.
While encouraging everyone to enjoy the season, police have also urged the community to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety.
According to local police, an uptick in criminal activities is usually noted between 1 October and 1 January, as the year draws to a close with everyone enjoying school holidays, year-end functions and festive celebrations.
Beach and surrounds
Gordon’s Bay police have said, considering the statistics of the year before, theft of and out of motor vehicles would be a concern, given the increase in the number of people visiting Gordon’s Bay, beaches and surrounding areas.
During the 2023 festive season such incidents of theft increased, especially between Wednesday and Saturday.
Situation in Lwandle
Lwandle police confirmed it had also seen an increase in thefts of, and out of, motor vehicles reported in the precinct during the holidays.
They did not confirm specific times or hotspot areas for such incidents, but have noted that suspected thieves are on the prowl in groups. “The suspects involved in these cases are unknown, but they usually operate in a group of two to five people,” said Sergeant Mthokozisi Gama, spokesperson for Lwandle police.
He further indicated that the modus operandi being used in these cases would be to gain access to the vehicle with unknown sharp objects or break the windows.
Police on patrol
Somerset West police have seen a decrease in the number of thefts from motor vehicles, with only seven cases reported in October. This was accomplished through increased visible patrols to deter potential criminals. It was done to improve on the statistics of last year.
Over the period of 1 October to 1 January last year the police station saw 35 cases of theft out of motor vehicles.
Tips for the festive season
The police in the Helderberg have provided helpful tips to prevent anyone falling victim to criminals on the prowl.
“Don’t leave valuable items on the back seat of your vehicle,” said a spokesperson for Gordon’s Bay police.
Sharing this sentiment, Vispol commander of Somerset West, Lieutenant-Colonel JP du Toit added: “Either hide items underneath your seats, in the boot or in the glove compartment.”
Gama further advised motorists to ensure that their car doors and windows are properly closed and locked, and vehicles are parked in well-lit areas or behind closed gates.
“Always be vigilant of your surroundings and check for suspicious people and suspicious motor vehicles.”
