Thieves target parents during school drop-offs in Kariega, police warn - IOL

The Hill School SAPS Kariega has increased police visibility around schools after several thefts from vehicles were reported during morning drop-off periods.

Parents dropping their children off at schools in Kariega are being warned not to leave valuables in their vehicles after several thefts were reported during the busy morning school run.

Eastern Cape police said criminals were taking advantage of the brief moments when parents and caregivers walked away from their vehicles while dropping off children.

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg said the incidents had been reported in the Kariega policing precinct during morning school drop-off periods.

“The incidents occur when motorists leave their vehicles unattended, even for a short period, creating an opportunity for criminals to target valuables left inside the vehicles,” Janse Van Rensburg said.

Police have warned motorists against leaving handbags, laptops, cellphones, wallets and other electronic devices visible inside parked vehicles.

Motorists have also been urged to make sure their vehicles are properly locked before walking away, rather than assuming they have been secured.

The warning comes as SAPS increases its visibility and monitoring around schools in Kariega during peak drop-off periods.

“The community is further advised to remain alert to suspicious persons or vehicles in the vicinity of schools and to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately,” Janse Van Rensburg said.

Police also cautioned parents against leaving vehicles running or leaving keys inside while briefly accompanying children onto school premises.

“SAPS Kariega is increasing police visibility and monitoring around schools during peak drop-off periods,” Janse Van Rensburg said.

She urged motorists and the wider community to remain vigilant and take precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime.