By REGINALD KANYANE

13 June 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has noticed with concern the number of incidents reported relating to the theft out of and from motor vehicles. The police said they are urging the public to adhere to and implement safety measures to curb this occurrence, especially during shopping trips, at guest houses, holiday destinations, social gatherings, homes and other public places.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said individuals should not leave their firearms in the motor vehicles’ glove compartment (cubbyhole) or anywhere in the vehicle when they park the vehicle as this is against the law. Kock said they should make sure that all the doors and windows are properly locked when they park their vehicles.

“Valuable items such as laptops, hand bags, shopping bags, cash and cameras should be locked in the boot and out of plain sight. Be aware of people approaching you and informing you that you have a flat tyre.

“The intention can be to steal items that they see inside the vehicle. Keep the doors locked and windows closed at all times, especially when driving in town. Do not use a cellular phone unless you have a hands-free kit as it can also lure criminals to your vehicle,” he said.

Kock further said at night, people should park in well-lit and not dark and secluded areas. He added that they should not leave their keys in the ignition.

“Remove detachable radios and the radio’s face when leaving your vehicle unattended. Try to install an alarm and/or anti-theft device. Use parking areas with a parking attendant or supervision/someone patrolling.

“Otherwise try to park in locations that are well populated and not crowded by bushes or buildings where offenders might hide,” said Kock.

He said if they see something, they must say something. Kock urged the public to report criminality to your nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or the MySAPS App.

“All information received will be treated confidentially,” he said.

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