Following an increase in thefts, police in Gqeberha are once more advising motorbike owners to take extra security precautions.
According to police, four motorcycles have been taken since last Saturday in the Fairview, Pinelands, Sunridge Park, and Framesby neighborhoods.
“Police believe that a syndicate is now active in the area. According police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, the bikes are either hoisted onto a trailer or the back of a bakkie and driven away.
“The bikes often range in value from R55 000 to R150 0000 each,” she said.
According to Janse Van Rensburg, entry into the homes is typically acquired by pushing garage doors open or lifting automated gates, after which the motorcycles are pushed or driven out of the yard.
Police advise property owners to remember the following safety measures to protect their assets:
- Make sure your vehicles are adequately secured. Your vehicles should all have trackers installed.
- Even if your bike is kept in your garage, never leave your keys on it. Additionally, avoid leaving the keys in the garage cabinet, etc.
- Make sure you always have the keys on you. In some cases, the garage doors were lifted and the motorcycle was taken.
- Sometimes, desperate measures must be taken; secure the wheels with a chain lock or clamp.
- Never turn a dog’s barking away. Avoid going outside alone if you have any suspicions; call the police or your security provider instead.
- Observe the same kombis and open bakkies that frequently pass through your neighborhood.
- Install an outdoor sensor light.
- Older model cars should make sure to park close to cameras, especially in shopping centers, so that suspects’ footage is easily accessible.