Elderly Female Shoppers Fall Victim to Organised Vehicle Theft Rings
14 May 2025
A
wave of vehicle thefts is sweeping across Gauteng shopping centres, with
elderly female shoppers becoming the primary targets of organised theft rings.
Security experts have noted a significant increase in incidents, particularly
in Pretoria and the East Rand areas, where criminals are employing
well-rehearsed distraction techniques.
According
to recent reports, thieves operate in groups of three, typically one woman and
two men, and follow a consistent pattern. The team identifies vulnerable
shoppers, creates a distraction such as bumping into them with a trolley, and
uses that moment to steal car keys from handbags often left in shopping
trolleys. Within minutes, the vehicle is driven away from the parking area.
"These
criminals are extremely observant and strategic," says Adriaan Otto,
Managing Director of Excellerate Services. "They specifically target
shoppers who may be less aware of their surroundings, and they've perfected
techniques that allow them to steal keys without raising immediate alarm."
Security
camera footage from multiple locations has captured the theft process, showing
how quickly and efficiently the criminals operate. In most cases, victims only
discover their keys are missing when they finish shopping, by which time their
vehicle has already disappeared.
Law
enforcement agencies are working with shopping centre management teams and
private security to address the growing problem. Meanwhile, Excellerate
Services recommends several precautionary measures for shoppers:
·
Never
place handbags in shopping trolleys, keep your bag secured on your person
·
Use
a cross-body bag rather than a shoulder bag that can be easily accessed
·
Keep
car keys in a secure pocket separate from your handbag
·
Be
alert when someone bumps into you, this is often not accidental
·
Shop
with a friend or family member when possible
·
Report
suspicious behaviour immediately to security personnel
Retail
centres throughout Gauteng have responded by increasing security presence,
installing additional surveillance cameras, and training staff to identify
suspicious behaviour patterns.
"Awareness
is our strongest defense against these types of crimes," Otto emphasises.
"We're seeing these criminals specifically targeting older women shopping
alone, so we encourage family members to discuss these risks with elderly
relatives and consider shopping together whenever possible."
For more information on retail security services and a free assessment, contact us here.
Source:
The Insurance Crime Bureau