South Africa is experiencing a surge in criminal activities targeting patrons of bars and restaurants, especially during sporting matches.
There has been a significant increase in these incidents, with criminals targeting not only personal items like smartphones and wallets but also vehicles and even homes of patrons, reports BusinessTech.
The article quoted Charnel Hattingh, Head Of Marketing And Communications at Fidelity ADT, who said that in the last week alone, there has been15 reported incidents of criminals targeting patrons at bars and restaurants.
The spike in criminal activity has been particularly evident in Gauteng, with similar trends noted in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. The South African Police Service (SAPS) data confirms that these areas are hotspots for such crimes.
As per the report, Fidelity ADT recommends that bars and restaurants ensure their CCTV systems are fully operational and that staff remain vigilant for any unusual activity.
When it comes to patrons, there are essential safety tips to keep in mind when out and about in SA, too:
Unsplash / John Arano
5 tips for staying safe at restaurants and bars in SA
To enhance safety while visiting bars and restaurants, consider the following practical tips.
1. Use a crossbody bag
Use a crossbody bag or an inside pocket for your phone and wallet when you are out and about to make it harder for thieves to snatch them.
2. Never place your valuables on the table
Even if you think you are in a relatively safe public area, never place your phone or wallet down on the table or countertop, keep these valuable devices on you to avoid opportunistic criminals. It goes without saying that you should never leave your valuables unsupervised in public spaces, either.
Pexels / Wild Little Things Photo
3. Keep the safety of your vehicle in mind
If you’re driving instead of using an e-hailing service, make sure to park your car in an area that is well-lit and preferably busy with foot traffic. Captain Eddie Hall from the Witbank Police advises that having a tracking device on your vehicle can increase the chances of recovery if it gets stolen, though criminals often act quickly to disable these devices.
Don’t leave valuables visible inside your vehicle, visible or not.
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4. Don’t get distracted by your phone
Opportunists often strike in the most unsuspecting moments, when your attention is focused elsewhere – such as when you are busy with something on your phone. Keep an eye on your surroundings and be cautious of anyone acting suspiciously. Avoid being too engrossed in your phone or other distractions.
5. Find safety in numbers
Socialising in groups can deter criminals. There’s safety in numbers, so try to visit bars and restaurants with friends or family.
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Feature Image: Unsplash / Fred Moon
