Warrant Office Moses Maphakela, spokesperson for the Bramley police, said shoppers have reported their belongings stolen from their cars and others have reported their cars stolen. He wants to warn shoppers at the centre to be vigilant. “People need to make sure that all of their car doors and windows are locked,” he said. “Do not leave your valuable goods on the car seat, lock them in the boot.”
Maphakela said thieves are targeting cars with laptops inside. He added the police have also received false claims of theft.
“People claiming that they are victims of theft when they are not will be arrested by the police,” added Maphakela. “We can’t stress it enough – people must look after their belongings and not fall victim to crime.”
However, management at Hyde Park Shopping Centre said they have not seen an increase in vehicle theft recently. “On the contrary, year to date, we have received less reported incidents than for the same period in 2012,” said the centre’s marketing manager Michael Wilson.
“Extensive security measures have been implemented in order to minimise crime.” Wilson said the shopping centre will be combating theft by using remote signal jamming device detectors, undercover security personnel, increased security monitoring in parking areas using Segways, limited access and entry points during off-peak times, and increased CCTV camera monitoring. “We will continue to work closely with our security service provider and local police in order to ensure relevant and effective security practices,” added Wilson.
