Security company warns families about rise in kidnapping at malls
The scary reality is that kidnapping is a reality we have to face, whether we are in the safety of our home or out in public...
The statistics involving kidnapping in South Africa are disheartening to say the least.
According to Statista.com, "the most common causative factor for kidnappings in South Africa was ransom-related, with reports from a select sample. Extortion-related abductions followed, with reports out of the select sample in the same quarter."
Kidnapping cases are escalating, and it's worrying for many reasons, but mostly because we don't feel safe leaving our kids alone.
"According to the most recent crime statistics, covering October to December 2024, Gauteng recorded the highest number of kidnappings, 2,499 cases, followed by KwaZulu-Natal, 901, and the Western Cape, 275," reports IOL.
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A recent video post on TikTok by Thompsons Security Group warns parents and guardians to be more vigilant around shopping malls.
Getting distracted is easy when you are out with the kids in a busy place. With the school holidays, many parents and guardians want to treat the kids to a good outing, but staying aware of your surroundings is a must. It just takes one second for something to happen.
Watch the video from TikTok below.
@thompsonssecuritygroup Kidnapping is an unfortunate reality we have to face, so please keep an eye out for your children whenever you go out. Especially in busy areas like malls for example. #ThompsonsSecurity #ThompsonsSecurityGroup #TacticalResponse #StaySafesa #HighRiskProtection #PrivateSecurity #Armedsecurity #crimetok #securityguards #safersouthafrica #securitytips
♬ original sound - Thompsons Security Group
There are several reasons behind the increase in kidnappings, according to IOL.
Organised crime is a lucrative business for criminals who target wealthy families.
Economic hardship - people are struggling with the high unemployment rates and poverty, and are turning to a life of crime.
Human trafficking - many kidnappings are linked to human trafficking syndicates who abduct kids and or adults to form part of sexual exploitation, forced labour, etc.
Weak governance and an inconsistent judicial system could leave kidnappers feeling confident about their motives, facing no consequences for their actions.
Watch the video below on YouTube on how to stay vigilant when out with the kids.
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Image Courtesy of iStock