A motorist was recently robbed in broad daylight in the full glare of the public in Johannesburg, South Africa.
In the video shared by Intelligence Bureau SA on their Facebook page, the robbers can be seen confidently approaching the vehicle with one opening the door and entering while the other “guards” and looks over with the vehicle still in motion. The robbers eventually made away with a bag and escaped without being confronted.
Take a look at the video below:
The video post sparked a lot of comments and mixed reactions with some people expressing their worries about the increasing rate of crime in the country and others wondering why the victim wasn’t helped by onlookers. The main concern and issue raised by others, however, was why the car doors were unlocked.
In an interview with TimesLive, Casey Rousseau‚ marketing manager of 1st for Women Insurance shared some tips on how to avoid becoming a potential target and victim. Take a look at them below. We hope this can be of help.
- Leave windows open by about three centimetres to make the glass more flexible‚ allowing the window to absorb the sudden impact of an attempted smash-and-grab.
- Don’t leave valuables‚ such as a handbag‚ on the passenger or back seat as it will attract attention by criminals.
- Street intersections‚ stop signs and driveways are regarded as smash-and-grab “hot spots”. Be especially alert when stationary in a vehicle – don’t be distracted.
- When approaching an intersection‚ leave a reasonable stopping distance between you and the car in front‚ which will allow you room to manoeuvre and escape a dangerous situation.
- Keep a hand close to the hooter to alert others that you are in trouble.
- Try to approach red traffic lights at night slowly‚ so you get there as it turns green.
- Anti-smash-and-grab film fitted to a car makes it difficult to gain entry.
- If confronted by an attacker‚ remain calm‚ do not argue or make sudden gestures and avoid eye contact. But try to remember something about the person that could later be used to identify them.
- Witnesses should avoid confronting attackers as they may be armed.
