Speedy thieves raid three cars in less than three minutes

South Africans know all too well that motor vehicles are a target for criminals. Those who live in a busy city, especially, have learned to be cautious on the roads and when parking cars outside of buildings. 

But despite your best efforts, you may still find yourself, or someone you know, falling victim to motor vehicle-related crimes. The 2016/17 Victims of Crime Survey conducted by Statistics South Africa revealed that 139 433 theft from motor vehicle incidents occurred in one year.

This footage recorded in Craighall is a timely reminder of how easy it is for criminals to gain access to your car.

In full view of passersby and apparently in no rush, the man and his accomplices unlock the cars and search boots or backseats for any valuables they can steal. 

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Within three minutes, three cars have been searched and looted. It could happen to anyone. 

So, what can you do to prevent this from happening to you? Here are ten tips to help you keep your car - and yourself - safe from crime. 

• Ensure that your vehicle is parked in a well-lit, protected and ideally guarded area.

• Be mindful of remote jamming. Check that your vehicle is locked and then check again.

• Be wary of “sliders” – criminals who seem to be passersby, who open one of your vehicle's doors just a bit before you get the chance to lock your vehicle and then loot the vehicle once you’re gone.

• Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.

• Empty out your car at the end of each day to keep the temptation of criminals at an absolute minimum.

• Equip your car’s windows with anti-smash-and-grab film.

• Invest in a good alarm system that sounds the moment that there is any sort of breach.

• Never leave items of interest lying in full view on car seats.

• Never leave house keys or important papers in your car. 

• Ensure that you have adequate insurance cover on portable possessions you carry with you on a regular basis.

Be vigilant and stay aware. The more difficult it is for criminals to access your car and your belongings, the less likely you are to be a victim of theft from your motor vehicle. 

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