KIMBERLEY – Following a surge in the theft of high-end vehicles in Kimberley, Northern Cape, police warned vehicle owners and visitors to be vigilant and take precautions to safeguard their vehicles and valuables. The warning comes ahead of today’s Currie Cup semi-final match between the Griquas and the Lions at the Suzuki Stadium at 13:00.

According to police, a car theft syndicate targets venues including shopping malls, sports grounds and festival venues. Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane, provincial spokesperson for Northern Cape police, said that vehicles worth more than R4 million were reportedly stolen within three days – between Wednesday and Friday.

“The syndicate uses signal-jamming devices to prevent vehicles from locking properly. Vehicle owners are urged to physically check the doors before walking away from their vehicles,” he said.

“On Wednesday, a Toyota Land Cruiser was reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area, while on Friday two vehicles, namely a Ford Ranger Wildtrak and a Ford Raptor, were also reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area in the city. The SAPS is investigating the incidents and is following all leads to identify and apprehend those responsible,” said Shemane.

Shemane said the syndicate targets high-value vehicles at shopping mall parking areas and that police have received critical information about the syndicate’s modus operandi. “Information has been received alleging that a male and a female suspect may be moving around shopping mall parking areas using signal-jamming devices to interfere with vehicle locking systems. This information forms part of the ongoing investigation and members of the public are urged to report any suspicious persons or activities to the police immediately,” he said.

Shemane said police have tightened safety measures at the Yonder Hartsfees, anticipating an increased number of visitors for today’s rugby match. “The SAPS further appeals to the public to remain vigilant and not to confront suspected criminals. Rather, immediately report suspicious behaviour to the police or the relevant security personnel,” he said.

Vehicle owners are urged to:

• Avoid unnecessary trips at night and, where possible, travel with another person.

• Physically check that their vehicle is locked after activating the remote locking system. Do not rely solely on the flashing lights or locking sound.

• Always lock all vehicle doors and ensure that windows are properly closed before leaving the vehicle.

• Do not leave vehicles unattended while the engine is running, even for a short period.

• Avoid leaving valuable items such as laptops, handbags, electronic devices or other belongings visible inside vehicles.

• Park in well-lit and, where possible, secure areas with visible security personnel or surveillance cameras.

• Be alert to suspicious persons loitering around parking areas and report such behaviour to security personnel or the SAPS.

• Avoid stopping in isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.

• If approached by a stranger while inside your vehicle, keep the windows closed or open them only slightly if necessary. Do not open the vehicle door.

• If you notice that your vehicle has not locked properly, do not leave it unattended. Move to a safer location or seek assistance from security personnel.

• Consider installing additional anti-theft devices, such as a gear lock, as an added layer of protection.

The police are calling on anyone who may have information that could assist with the ongoing investigations to contact Detective Warrant Officer Anthony Rheeder of the Kimberley Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit on 083 538 3520. Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, while emergencies should be reported to 10111, which operates 24 hours a day.