NOORDWESTER – LICHTENBURG - God; Restore Our Good Life (GROGL), under the leadership of Dr Daniel Buthelezi and his collective, has issued a festive season safety alert to all communities. Through research conducted by the GROGL Safety and Security Sector, the organisation warns that various crimes typically increase during the holiday period as movement, shopping activity, and social gatherings peak.
GROGL urges the public to remain vigilant, avoid risky behaviour, and report suspicious activity. They also warned communities to be “extra cautious and proactive in safeguarding both lives and property” as a noticeable spike in robberies and muggings, especially in crowded markets, at ATMs, taxi ranks and isolated streets occur in the festive period. Criminals often target individuals carrying cash, groceries, or electronic devices.
The organisation further warns of increased housebreaking and home invasions, particularly when families travel or return home late at night.
Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are also widespread during major events, church services, and at bus and shopping centres. Meanwhile, assault and Gender-based Violence (GBV) cases tend to rise due to alcohol-related conflicts and domestic clashes.
Economic crimes remain a major concern during the festive rush – this includes cases of ATM and bank card fraud, where criminals pose as helpers to steal or swap cards.
The organisation also cautions the public about mobile money scams, which involve fake messages claiming money has been received, followed by attempts to trick victims into reversing funds they never actually got.
Online shoppers are also warned about fake websites advertising cheap holiday deals, as well as fraudsters impersonating couriers and requesting false “delivery fees.”
Impersonation scams - including scammers posing as police officers, bank officials, or relatives - are reported to be widespread, along with SIM-swap fraud and bogus job offers.
Counterfeit money is another seasonal concern, with criminals targeting small shops, vendors and taxi operators.
Property crimes remain a threat and vehicle-related crimes spike heavily during the festive period. GROGL warns that parked cars at malls, churches and residential homes are vulnerable to theft and break-ins, with criminals increasingly using remote jamming devices to prevent vehicles from locking.
Theft from yards, homes and businesses, including gas cylinders, solar panels, livestock and other valuables is also common.
Small businesses are urged to be on alert for shoplifting, which rises due to increased foot traffic.
GROGL notes a surge in social media hacking incidents, where criminals use compromised accounts to request money from friends and family.
The public is warned against phishing emails and text messages disguised as Christmas prizes, package collection alerts or bank verification notices.
Holidaymakers are also urged to be cautious of fake accommodation and travel-booking platforms, which fraudsters use to steal deposits.
Safety tips for the festive season
* Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Stay alert at ATMs, malls, taxi ranks and events
* Verify online deals and avoid paying into unknown bank accounts. Confirm all money-related messages, even if they appear to come from friends or relatives
* Secure homes properly and consider using lights or timers when away
* Avoid posting travel plans on social media
* Report any suspicious behaviour to the police or local community safety groups.
GROGL festive well-wishes
GROGL extends well-wishes to all families and communities, urging unity and collective responsibility. “We encourage the public to remain alert and protect one another during this festive season,” the organisation said.
