Caution urged after couple held at gunpoint

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Bitou crimefighters are urging residents and visitors to be vigilant after a couple was held at gunpoint in Plettenberg Bay on Saturday 15 July.

Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier said that they received an alert just after 19:15 that a couple had been assaulted near the Beacon Island traffic circle.

The victims informed responders that they had been held at gunpoint by two suspects and robbed of their possessions before the assailants fled the scene.

Olivier said when responders arrived, the area and possible escape routes were meticulously searched.

"The Rapid Response Drone Unit was also launched and searched around the Signal Hill bush area for movement," Olivier said. The suspects were however not found and the victims opened a case of armed robbery with local police.

"While the victims are okay, they are traumatised. Opportunistic crime is a reality across South Africa and therefore one should always stay alert and be crime wise.

"Never drop your guard and think it will not happen to you."

Keep your possessions safe

Olivier urged residents and visitors to always store their valuables in a safe place when frequenting restaurants, at work and at home. "Opportunists are very inventive and lightning-quick when they spot a mark."

He also warned not to leave any valuables in a vehicle. "Always lock it away in your vehicle's boot. Make sure your vehicle is locked before stepping away from your car - remote blocking is real."

At home, Olivier said, it is very important to ensure that all windows and doors that do not have security bars are locked.

"Do not leave you front door open when you are at the swimming pool in the back yard. Ensure that electronic devices and other valuables are securely put away and are not accessible through burglar-barred windows."