Stay safe this New Year: Police warn of spiking and robbery syndicates

 As the country is celebrating the New Year, police have advised both men and women to stay vigilant when visiting drinking establishments, nightclubs, taverns, and other recreational venues.

Police have identified a modus operandi in which syndicates use young women to target men. The syndicates monitor the women’s movements and assist them in selecting potential victims inside clubs, taverns, concerts, and other alcohol-serving venues.

"This festive season, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has noted a number of cases reported in various parts of the country, like Gauteng and the North West, where men who left with women from drinking places would end up being robbed or, in some instances, killed," police said in a statement.

Once a target is identified, the women may invite men to accompany them to another venue, such as a hotel, a guesthouse, or a private residence. During this time, police said victims are often spiked with substances, leaving them vulnerable to robbery. In some reported cases, men have also died due to overdoses from spiked substances. Stolen items commonly include cars, cellphones, and money.

"Men are therefore warned to be extra vigilant and to avoid being targets at these drinking outlets. Women are also urged not to involve themselves in criminal activity, as such often leads to an imminent arrest." 

Police also pointed out that women have been victims of similar crimes. Some have been found assaulted, raped, or deceased after attending parties, nightclubs, shebeens, and taverns. Victims may be targeted by strangers or even acquaintances. 

To help prevent such incidents, police offered the following safety tips for both men and women:

• Go out with people you know and stay together.

• Share your plans with someone you trust, including your expected return time and location.

• Never leave your drink unattended and limit alcohol intake.

• Arrange safe transportation to and from venues to avoid drunk driving.

• Be alert to suspicious activity and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

In addition, police are investigating a circulating video showing children consuming alcohol, and operations are underway to identify the parents or guardians.