The police has noticed with concern the number of business robberies reported and urged the community, including business owners, to become more vigilant and alert.
By following these safety hints provided by the police an individual and business owners can minimise the risk of becoming a robbery victim, said Lt. Col. Sergio Kock, police spokesperson.
Business robberies
- install extra security gates and appoint security guards;
- install security cameras and alarm systems;
- ensure that all doors and windows are secure;
- keep minimal cash on the premises and bank regularly;
- train staff on how to handle robberies and emergency situations;
- keep a record of serial numbers of valuable items;
- tuckshops and other small business must adhere to the operating and closing times and not be open till late; and
- refrain from sleeping in tuckshops as this makes you a bigger target for business robberies.
House robberies
- get a guard dog;
- install security gates and burglar bars;
- always lock doors and windows when leaving the house;
- consider installing an alarm system and CCTV cameras;
- do not open the door for strangers;
- be aware of your surroundings when entering or leaving the house;
- immediately contact police when you notice suspicious persons loitering around and sitting on street corners; and
- do not leave spare keys in an obvious place like post boxes.
General robberies
- avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas;
- keep your valuables out of sight in public places;
- be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior;
- do not carry large amounts of cash or valuable items with you;
- keep your cellphone and other electronic devices hidden when walking in public; and
- do not resist during a robbery, as this may escalate the situation and increase your risk of harm.
ATM robberies
- do not speak to strangers while busy at an ATM;
- use ATM that is well-lit and not hidden away;
- do not give your pin to anyone;
- cover your pin when doing ATM transaction;
- do not withdraw large amount of cash rather use debit or credit cards for purchases;
- always be aware of your surroundings;
- if possible withdraw money at the tellers in supermarkets;
- be aware of card scammers;
- be aware of tricksters that say they can make your money more when drawing cash from ATM’s or banks; and
- do not use an ATM that you suspect was tampered with.
The SAPS remind the public that prevention is key.
“If you witness or experience a robbery, report it immediately to the police. By working together, we can help create safer crime free communities for everyone,” Kock said.
