Police in Kimberley are investigating the theft of three high-value vehicles from shopping mall parking areas, with motorists urged to physically check their cars are locked before walking away.
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Kimberley police have warned motorists to physically check that their vehicles are locked after three cars worth more than R4 million were stolen from shopping mall parking areas in the city within three days.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said police were investigating the thefts and following all leads to identify those responsible.
A Toyota Land Cruiser was reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area on Wednesday, September 2.
Two more vehicles,a Ford Ranger Wildtrak and a Ford Raptor, were reported stolen from a shopping mall parking area on Friday, September 4.
Police have also received information alleging that a man and a woman may be moving around shopping mall parking areas using signal-jamming devices to interfere with vehicle locking systems.
Shemane warned motorists not to assume their vehicles are locked simply because they have pressed the remote locking button.
“Criminals may use 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.
Police said the information about the suspected use of signal-jamming devices formed part of the ongoing investigation and urged the public to report suspicious people or activities immediately.
The warning comes as Kimberley expects an influx of visitors this weekend, with the Yonder Hartsfees under way and the Suzuki Griquas set to face the Fidelity ADT Lions in the Currie Cup semi-final.
The Hartsfees started on Thursday and concludes on Sunday, September 6.
The rugby semi-final will be played at 1pm on Sunday at Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.
With increased numbers of people expected at shopping malls, sports grounds and festival venues, police have urged motorists and visitors to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect their vehicles and valuables.
Shemane urged motorists to physically check that their vehicles were locked after activating their remote locking systems rather than relying only on flashing lights or the locking sound.
Drivers should also ensure that all doors are locked and windows are properly closed before walking away from their vehicles.
Police have warned motorists against leaving vehicles unattended while the engine is running and advised them not to leave valuables such as laptops, handbags and electronic devices visible inside cars.
Motorists have also been urged to use well-lit and secure parking areas where possible, particularly where security personnel or surveillance cameras are present.
Police warned members of the public to be alert to people loitering around parking areas and to report suspicious behaviour to security personnel or SAPS.
“If you notice that your vehicle has not locked properly, do not leave it unattended,” police advised.
Motorists should instead move to a safer location or seek assistance from security personnel.
Police also recommended additional anti-theft devices, such as gear locks, and advised motorists to avoid unnecessary trips at night and, where possible, travel with another person.
Members of the public have been urged not to confront suspected criminals but to report suspicious behaviour to police or security personnel.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation can 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. Emergencies can be reported to 10111, which operates 24 hours a day.
Members of the public can also use the MySAPS App to report criminal activity.
Shemane urged vehicle owners and visitors to Kimberley to remain alert and take responsibility for securing their vehicles.
“Prevention starts with vigilance,” he said.
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