Mon 27 May 2019:
“New shopping centres, restaurants … are particularly vulnerable as they typically don’t have jamming solutions in place yet and have new security staff who aren’t as experienced in screening visitors to identify potential threats.”
Despite the sophisticated technology used in modern cars today, theft of items from parked vehicles continues to be a crime that is prevalent across South Africa. CPF crime data gathered by 7Arrows Security has recently revealed that vehicle break-ins and the theft of valuables from vehicles has increased. While in some cases, criminals gained access to valuables inside the vehicle by breaking a window or tampering with the lock, the growing trend was the use of remote jamming devices, which prevented the car from locking. “These crimes predominately take place at garage forecourts and shopping centres during the day and commonly involve two perpetrators,” said head of Dialdirect Insurance Maanda Tshifularo. “New shopping centres, restaurants … are particularly vulnerable as they typically don’t have jamming solutions in place yet and have new security staff who aren’t as experienced in screening visitors to identify potential threats,” said Tshifularo. “That said, a few simple precautions can be taken to ensure that your belongings, and your vehicle are protected.”
Managing director of 7Arrows Security Jason Mordecai recommends a “sense check” – using your senses of touch, sight and sound. “When getting out of the car, look around you; do you see a car with occupants that look suspicious? “Physically tugging the door handle of the car to ensure it is locked, entails the sense of touch,” said Mordecai. “In addition, use your eyes and ears to double check for signs that the vehicle is locked.”
He encouraged remote jamming hotspots to consider installing detectors that warn when a device is being used. Security officers should also be briefed to monitor groups of people sitting in stationary vehicles, loitering in public parking lots or approaching other cars. “That said, in a climate where remote jamming is rife and unlikely to decrease any time soon, the best way to avoid vehicle break-ins is to leave your car free of valuable items,” said Mordecai.
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