Armed robberies, house burglaries and hijackings on the rise in the eastern and Centurion areas BY Ronelle Snyders

[Nat Quinn]

Armed robberies, house burglaries and hijackings on the rise in the eastern and Centurion areas

With the increase of these crimes in parts of Centurion and Pretoria East, residents are urged to take the necessary measures to safeguard their properties and personal well-being.

Parts of Centurion and Pretoria East have seen an increase in armed robberies, house burglaries and hijackings.

According to security companies, these crimes have become more common in these areas.

Schoeman said four suspects were recently arrested in Boschkop after robbing and kidnapping a pedestrian on June 30.

“The pedestrian was waiting for a taxi when the four suspects in a vehicle forced him into a vehicle at gunpoint and then drove away with him,” he said.

He said the suspects took the victim’s phone, tried to access funds through his banking app, and then dropped him off. Schoeman said the same vehicle was next spotted at a shopping centre in Boschkop.

“We detained the driver and a passenger and handed the matter over to the SAPS,” he said.

He added that the vehicle is connected to other criminal activities.

Three suspects were arrested on July 4 after robbing a spaza shop in Boschkop. The suspects were found in possession of a credit card machine that was stolen during the robbery.

Monitor Net spokesperson JP le Roux said street robberies were also on the rise throughout Centurion. He said car hijackings, house burglaries and house robberies are also worrisome.

Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity ADT spokesperson, said a plan of action was needed for victims of robberies.

“It is crucial for people to be aware of what to do in the event of an armed robbery.

“A key aspect of protecting yourself and your family is talking about the ‘what ifs,'” she said.

She said good fencing around the yard, including CCTV security systems, electric fences, access control systems, outdoor infra alarms and proper lighting, is important.

“Activate outdoor infra alarms (“beams”) and the alarm system in areas of the house that you are not using when you get home. Business security systems and home security solutions should be linked to an armed response service provider, and all systems should be tested regularly,” she added.

Hattingh said it is very important to remain calm when faced with a terrifying ordeal. The criminals are also tense and if you lose it, they can pull the trigger, she said.

Residents can follow the following tips on what to do in an armed robbery:
– Stay calm and comply with robbers’ orders.

– Keep your hands visible and avoid reaching for anything unless instructed to do so.

– Do not try to negotiate with the robbers. Speak clearly when spoken to.

– Give the robbers what they are asking for and avoid lying about the presence of safes or cash on the premises, as they may have already done their research.

– Observe the robbers and collect as much information as possible about their appearance, voice, language, dress, distinguishing signs, length and weapons used.

– Keep the robbers informed of any unexpected arrivals, such as a family member visiting.

After the robbery:
– Activate your panic button or phone to alert your armed response service provider and, if necessary, call the police on 10111. Be sure to indicate whether medical assistance is required.

– Close all doors to prevent further access.

– Check the well-being of victims and make sure everyone remains calm.

– Provide clear and detailed information about the incident to first responders.

– Avoid disturbed areas where the robbers may have been and point out any items they may have left behind.

Hattingh said people should take responsibility by being vigilant, reporting suspicious activity and installing proper home security solutions.

 

Volkskrag Nuus

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