THE Pietermaritzburg SAPS has issued a warning to business communities who have extended trading hours beyond normal times.
According to the statement released by Loop Street Police Station Spokesperson Captain Khosi Khonjelwayo, the police crime threat and trend analysis indicate an increase in robberies committed at business premises who have extended trading hours.
Business people are requested to increase security cameras, tighten access control on their business premises, employ additional personnel (security guards) to monitor movement to clients, avoid keeping large sums of cash during extended business hours, only a few expensive items must to be displayed and computers and cellphones must be locked away.
Business people are also encouraged to communicate with each other in their street or vicinity. Police also warn people to be careful when in the CBD at night.
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TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS
• Be alert of your surroundings at all times.
• If you are carrying a large amount of money ask a friend or relative to walk with you.
• Do not speak to strangers and ignore people who ask you to share counterfeit money on the street.
• Hide your cellphone because you became a target if it is visible.
• If you suspect you are being followed go into a shop or business and contact the police.
• Do not resist when being robbed or threatened - statistics show that victims doing so are injured or killed.
• Do not answer your cellphone in a busy street or in public places.
