Vehicles targeted

There has been an alarming spike in thefts from cars in Brackenfell, warn police.

They say they are beefing up patrols to fight the crime, but the efforts will be nought if the public continue to ignore basic precautions such as hiding valuables from plain sight.

“Leaving any valuables in your vehicles, creates an opportunity for criminals to target that vehicle,” said police spokeswoman Captain Erica Crous. “We would like the community to assist us in addressing this issue.”

Laptops and other expensive gear should not be left in the car boot as thieves would break into it to get them, she warned. Such items should rather be removed from the vehicle.

And because thieves use jamming devices to block signals from car remote controls, it’s important to physically check cars doors are locked.

“Do not just use the remote to activate the alarm and walk away. Feel all car doors,” said Captain Crous.

The Brackenfell CBD is a hot spot for car break-ins during the day; at night, Protea Heights and Bracken Heights are targeted.

“Neighbourhood watches and security companies are our eyes and ears in the community, their visibility through patrols is very helpful and appreciated,” said Captain Crous.

Two men, aged 25 and 26, were arrested on Friday February 22 on suspicion of using a jamming device to break into a vehicle, she said. They were linked to a vehicle break-in that happened in Brackenfell on Saturday February 16.