Warning: criminals in South Africa have a new target
Fast food delivery vehicles have become easy pickings for criminals, according to Gauteng police on Monday.
A number of delivery men were recently hijacked of their vehicle in Tshwane, said Brooklyn police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach.
Brooklyn and Sunnyside police stations were investigating.
She said drivers were vulnerable because they worked alone and often carried cash.
It was not only pizza deliveries that were at risk but all fast food, she said.
“The fact that they are working at night and must go out to unknown addresses to customers that they never met before also contributes to their vulnerability.”
According to the police, criminals poached on scooters and smaller motorbikes.
Sometimes they gave a non-existent street number so they could target fast food employees while they looked for the address.
A 23-year-old man recently received an order for “Pricilla” in Arcadia Street, Hatfield.
When he arrived, two men waited at the gate and overpowered him.
They made off with his Honda motorbike.
Police said it was vital for staff to remain aware of their surroundings and be safety conscious at all times.
They were advised not to carry more money than needed.
Fast food outlets should put signs on delivery vehicles stating that drivers only carried a limited amount of cash or delivered orders paid by credit card.
Drivers were asked to park under a streetlight, avoid parking in isolated area and carry a flashlight.
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