After numerous reports of robberies, smash-and-grabs and drug-related activities, the Table View police have issued a stern warning to the community to be extra vigilant when driving on Malibongwe Drive.
Malibongwe Drive and Potsdam Road have been identified as the most notorious spots for smash-and-grabs in the Table View area after an increase was noted during the past months.
Motorists say they are left grappling with the alarming escalation of crime along this road and some say they are making use of alternative routes.
“That road is a nightmare,” says Alan Baatjies via a Facebook post. “There needs to be daily police visibly,” he adds.
Table View police spokesperson, Capt Adriana Chander says whilst static at a robbery hot spot area in Malibongwe Drive, on Thursday 21 March officers observed one motorist acting suspiciously when he saw the police vehicle.
“He threw something from the front seat to the back seat, appearing nervous. The officers decided to investigate further and upon searching the vehicle, they discovered a container with a large quantity of crystal meth (tik), estimated to be worth half a million rand, weighing 1.2kg,” Chandler says.
The 28-year-old man and his vehicle were taken to Table View Police Station. He will appear in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court once charged.
“The public is urged to be vigilant when stationary at intersections, to lock their doors, keep their windows closed, and lock valuables in the boot of the vehicle before departing on their journey. Remove valuables from your vehicle when you park it in a public space, such as parking areas, beach fronts, and public roads near your home,” Chandler says.
Stay safe
A smash-and-grab usually plays on the element of speed and surprise. The violent smashing of the window at the passenger side places the motorist in a few moments of silent paralysis – just enough to get hold of the valuables and flee the scene.
These car burglaries can be expensive, from the cost of repairs to the vehicle and windows to replacing your belongings.
The victims will most likely be traumatised and feel victimised for quite some time.
“The thieves are usually after valuables which they can easily identify from outside the vehicle and sell as easily once removed from the possession of the motorists.” Items targeted include:
- Purses, handbags and wallets;
- Laptop bags, briefcases and backpacks;
- Shopping bags;
- Cellphones, MP3 players and tablets;
- Loose change and CDs and
- Keys.
Chandler gave the following tups to motorists;
- Lock all your doors and close the windows when driving – 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.
- Constantly be on the lookout for suspicious-looking characters.
- Always be conscious of your surroundings and remain alert when coming to an intersection or stopping your vehicle.
- Be wary of people standing at intersections – they may be innocent but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
“Anyone with information about criminal activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or to report it via the MySAPS app.”
