Richards Bay SAPS and the Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre have formed a partnership to ensure a safe shopping experience for the public and convenient access to police services.
A mobile Community Service Centre (CSC) has been set up in the centre at a vacant shop next to Pick n Pay Clothing since the beginning of December.
Police spokesperson Captain Debbie Ferreira says the office will be operational daily during shopping hours, while officers will conduct foot patrols to increase visible policing, attend to shoplifting incidents, address general enquiries, as well as issue affidavits and certify documents.
While there will be an increased police presence at the centre, Ferreira advised shoppers to remain vigilant while shopping and always exercise caution when withdrawing cash at Automated Teller Machines
(ATMs) or making payments at speed points with their debit and credit cards.
‘Never leave your bag or purse in your trolley or unattended on a shop counter, not even momentarily, as this is when thieves pounce.
‘Always keep your bags safely and never keep wallets in your back pocket.
‘This is also the time of the year when an increase in theft out of motor
vehicle cases are reported. We urge the public not to leave any valuables inside their vehicles,’ Ferreira said.
Safety tips while shopping
•When withdrawing cash at an ATM stand close and use your body and hand as a shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your pin
•Avoid carrying a large amount of money
•Never leave valuable possessions in the trolley
•Put your wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket
•Be alert when the cashier is scanning your items as the customer before you could put some of your items in his/her shopping bag
•If you are paying in cash make sure that you do not take out more than necessary
•Hold your smaller children by the hand as they may go missing in busy shopping malls
Great idea!! Tks