CPF urges holiday vigilance
EMPANGENI CPF has urged residents to be vigilant during the festive season so as not to fall victim to crime of any variety.
CPF chairperson Zonita Grobbelaar advised residents to test their alarm systems to ensure they are in good working order if going away on holiday.
“Many residents will soon go on vacation, leaving their homes empty. But before they leave, they must ensure they check their alarm system and inform their neighbours so they can keep a look out for, and report, any suspicious activities," said Grobbelaar.
She said residents must make sure their belongings are not visible to people walking past their home. "If it can be seen by someone walking on the road, it's visible to a criminal," she said. Grobbelaar further urged motorists to be vigilant and avoid leaving their valuables on the car seats.
“Firstly, when people leave their vehicles in a parking lot, they must physically check if the vehicle is properly locked.
“All items must go inside the boot, which helps prevent theft out of motor vehicles. “People must also avoid entertaining scam callers - criminals are desperate to make money during this period,” she said. Grobbelaar added that when driving back home, motorists must be observant, even during the day. “Motorists must be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious loiterers to us with a full description. People must report crime as soon as it happens and provide the police or CPF members with a full description,” she said.
Grobbelaar said at this time of year, people can be scammed out of their hard-earned money in a variety of ways.
“People must avoid giving out their particulars over the phone, especially when the caller poses as a bank representative," said Grobbelaar.
"They must rather go to the branch for any banking activities. When withdrawing money from an ATM, people must be vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid asking for assistance from strangers,” she said.
Echoing these sentiments, King Cetshwayo Cluster police spokesperson Captain Siyanda Shangase added that motorists should avoid parking their vehicles where there are no security officers or car guards.
“Motorists must also always close their windows when driving in town. In fact, they must always lock their doors and avoid opening a window for hawkers on the road or at intersections," said Shangase.
"It is imperative to observe parking areas and, on seeing anything suspicious, immediately report it to mall management or to the security guards."
Grobbelaar urges anyone wishing to be part of Empangeni CPF WhatsApp group, to contact her on 078 1029615.