A reported 12 vehicle thefts in Hartbeespoort have raised concerns about vehicle security in the area, with motorists urged to take extra precautions when parking their cars at home, at shopping centres and in public areas.

The reported thefts have highlighted the vulnerability of vehicles parked in residential areas, business premises and other locations where criminals may take advantage of unattended vehicles.

While the circumstances surrounding the 12 reported thefts have not yet been independently confirmed, the number is cause for concern and underlines the importance of vehicle security.

Vehicle owners urged to take precautions

Vehicle theft remains a concern across South Africa, with criminals employing various methods to steal vehicles, including keyless-entry attacks, remote-jamming devices and conventional theft techniques.

Motorists are encouraged to remain alert, particularly when parking in areas without controlled access or security surveillance.

Security experts generally recommend that vehicle owners use additional physical security measures, such as steering-wheel locks, immobilisers and tracking systems, rather than relying solely on factory-fitted security features.

Motorists should also physically check that their vehicles are locked before walking away, especially in busy parking areas where remote-jamming devices may be used.

Residents can help combat vehicle theft

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity, unfamiliar vehicles repeatedly driving through residential streets and individuals behaving suspiciously around parked vehicles.

Community policing forums, neighbourhood watches and private security companies can play an important role in sharing information and assisting police in identifying suspicious activity.

Vehicle owners should report thefts to the South African Police Service immediately and notify their tracking companies as quickly as possible.

Kormorant encourages residents who have experienced vehicle theft or witnessed suspicious activity in the Hartbeespoort area to report incidents to the police.

Anyone with information about vehicle theft syndicates or stolen vehicles can contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Police suspect vehicle theft syndicate

Police spokesperson Constable Ben Moabi confirmed that 12 vehicles were stolen during October, averaging approximately three vehicles per week.

Moabi said Toyota vehicles of various models were particularly targeted.

Police suspect that an organised vehicle theft syndicate may be responsible for the increase in thefts.

Schools, churches and shopping centres have reportedly emerged as particular hotspots. According to Moabi, criminals appear to target these locations because vehicles are likely to remain unattended for extended periods.

He also said suspected syndicate members had previously been arrested but subsequently released by the courts. Police investigations are continuing.