Security experts urge customers to be vigilant in shopping malls
A security expert is advising customers and shopping centre management to start being extra vigilant especially as the year nears its last quarter and the possibility of falling victim to criminals increases.
Yesterday, a man was shot and wounded during an armed robbery at the Pavilion in Westville. It is understood he came under attack after withdrawing money at one of the banks at the mall.
Johan Burger from the Institute for Security Studies says robbers also usually have their sights on jewellery and electric equipment when they hit malls. Burger says it is advisable to plan your shopping trips and those to other places of trade.
"Criminals would be on the lookout for people, especially if they see people withdrawing cash at ATM machines. Draw money before you go to the shopping mall," he said.
"The main reason for targeting jewellery shops and stores that sell electronic equipment is because it is relatively easy to carry away the goods and they have high value," Burger said.
Management at the Pavilion Shopping Centre has been unavailable for comment.
(File photo)