Police sound warning over smash and grabs

Langa police are again cautioning motorists to be vigilant along Jakes Gerwel Drive following a rise in smash and grabs there.

Police officers, along with neighbourhood watch volunteers and members of the community police forum, handed out safety pamphlets at the intersection of Jakes Gerwel Drive and Bhunga Avenue last Friday. They cautioned motorists to keep valuables out of sight.

“There are growing reports of crimes on that road,” said Sergeant Nonkosi Mapukata, who led the campaign.

Motorists should keep their doors locked and their windows up and avoid beggars, people handing out flyers and other distractions at intersections to reduce their chances of being robbed, she said.

She appealed to both the Langa and Bonteheuwel communities to work with the police to combat crime.

Langa CPF chairperson Alfred Magwaca said the crimes continued because the public failed to heed safety advice.

“They also should use a different road because that road is a no-go area,” he said.

Mlungis Mfengwana, of Langa, who lives along the road, said he had seen both pedestrians and motorists being robbed.

“I am happy to see police bringing awareness here, but I have my reservations. This will never end unless we all stand up. As a community, we should put a stop to all crimes, not only this. People's homes are burgled, ordinary people are robbed, and businesses are asked to pay protection. We are in hell,” he said.