The Randburg South African Police Service (SAPS) have taken to the streets to meet and educate the community on crime.
It’s not everyday that you see police, out in full force armed with smiles!
Usually when you see a heavy police presence in the streets of Joburg, you expect to be late for your meetings due to road-blocks but on Wednesday morning, Randburg SAPS took to the streets with friendly smiles & informational leaflets on how to be vigilant against crime.
One of the officers on duty said that the team were cracking down on crime by educating the community.
“Too many people forget things on the seats of their cars, or leave their windows open. We must all remember that crime is a reality and criminals will act on any opportunities.”
He loved the fact that he was able to meet some of the community… even just for a brief moment to introduce himself and talk to them.
Randburg Police Spokesperson Warrant Officer Johannes Maja told GoodThingsGuy that the police are targeting areas where smash & grabs were a problem. He added that the Police are beefing up efforts to educate the community about crime in the area.
“As the police, we are always there day in day out enforcing the law. But we cannot work without the members of the community. You do not actually need to patrol with us. Just share with us crime information you have and we will do the rest. Information is power.”
They encourage drivers in Johannesburg to be aware of smash & grab incidents.
“A smash & grab incident turns a pleasant drive into a nightmare when criminals are pouncing on unsuspecting drivers. These incidents can be expensive from the cost of repairs to the vehicle & windows, to replacing belongings.”
“These criminals are usually after valuable items such as handbags, laptops, shopping bags, gym bags & cell phones.”
The SAPS also offered advise to help prevent this happening to drivers:
- Lock all the doors and close all the windows
- Avoid getting involved in discussions with street vendors
- Be aware of people in the intersection
- Don’t leave handbags, cell phones or any other valuable item on the front seat or the floor clearly visible to criminals.
The police team will be moving around Joburg, meeting community members, educating everyone on different levels of crime in targeted areas and most of all… fighting crime, together.
For more information or to report any suspicious activities or people contact:
- SAPS Emergency – 10111
- SAPS Randburg – 011 449 9112
- Sector Patrol Vehicle – 071 675 7117
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