Pretoria - Police in Tshwane have vowed to continue with the integrated crime-combating and prevention activities into the festive season.
Under the theme “Vala Konke”, the campaign will ensure more boots on the ground.
SAPS’s acting Tshwane district commissioner Brigadier Thine Selepe said multidisciplinary operations would be supported by the departments of Home Affairs and Correctional Services, Gauteng Community Safety, Gauteng Traffic Department, community policing forums, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Labour Department, SA Revenue Service, Tracker and others.
The operations will be aimed at combating aggravated robberies, enforcement of road safety, intensifying liquor outlets inspections, inspecting second-hand goods, fighting the proliferation of illegal firearms, tracking wanted suspects, fighting crimes against the vulnerable, and conducting awareness campaigns. The operations will prevent the increase in business, home and cash-in-transit robberies and hijacking.
“During this season there is a rise in armed robberies at malls and shopping centres. We urge centre managers to tighten security measures.
“Clothing, cellphone and food outlets are mostly targets. We urge the stores to place robust security and be vigilant at all times.
“We would like to use this opportunity to warn the public to exercise caution when using ATMs, and never accept help from a stranger. When entering your PIN, make sure that the keypad is protected.
“Stokvel robberies and thefts are prevalent at this time of year. People need to adopt adequate security measures when withdrawing and sharing money,” said Thine.
People are urged to avoid using public areas and private homes to split the money. It is safe to use banks’ electronic systems when dividing the savings. The police wish to also warn prospective buyers responding to online adverts to be vigilant and to verify the legitimacy of the advertisements. They should not pay and transfer money before receiving goods.
Unscrupulous sellers are advertising cars and items by taking random pictures and posting them as if they own them. “Never furnish confidential details over the phone or confirm personal details. It is important to meet and complete transactions at a prudent place.”
The public is advised to beware of bogus prophets.
“Do not stop for any strangers in the streets, let alone give them an ear, no matter how true what they say may sound. Do not take or listen to any spiritual advice from strangers. Genuine prophets will never request your personal belongings or money.”
Thine said they would increase police visibility.
Roadblocks will be intensified targeting those driving under the influence of alcohol. Law enforcement agencies will be out in force to ensure road users and the wider community are kept safe.
Pretoria News