Introduction and Definition

Crime and criminal activity require motorists’ alertness and caution to be more than just aware of other vehicles.

Even though progress has been made in fighting hijackings and vehicle theft, there has been an increase in theft from vehicles. Many of these are what can be defined as

“Smash-and-Grab.”

In this section, the crime of smash-and-grab is discussed in more detail and offers recommendations to motorists on preventing this sudden invasion of privacy and likely loss of possessions.

What is a smash-and-grab crime?

A smash-and-grab criminal turns a pleasant drive into a nightmare when criminals  pounce on unsuspecting drivers. The criminal act is usually characterized by smashing through some sort of barrier (e.g., vehicle window) while the car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow-moving traffic and grabbing something of value (e.g., jackets, handbags, laptops, etc.).

A smash-and-grab usually plays on the element of speed and surprise -the violent smashing of the window at the passenger side places the motorist in a few moments of silent paralysis, just enough to get hold of the valuables and flee the scene.

The name “Smash-Grab” came from the exact act thieves do to vehicles: They break a window (Smash) and take all the valuables they can as quickly as they can (Grab).

Some of these perpetrators are experts, and some are just minor-league vandals.

Most are casual opportunists.

These car burglaries can be expensive, from the cost of repairs to the vehicle and windows to replacing your belongings. The victims will most likely be traumatized and feel victimized for quite some time.

What is being targeted?

The thieves are usually after valuables, which they can easily identify from outside the vehicle and sell as easily once removed from the possession of the motorists.

Items targeted include:

• Purses, handbags, and wallets;
• Laptop bags, briefcases, and bags;
• Shopping bags;
• Cell phones, MP3 players and tablets;
• Loose change and CDs; and

Where are drivers most at risk, and what are the methods used?

The media and other social media platforms do sometimes report or issue warnings of so-called “Hot spots”. Even without warning signs, the cautious driver should be able to identify areas where he/ she would be most at risk. These tend to be places where criminals know that vehicles will be stationary, where drivers can be easily distracted, and where the criminal can make a quick and effective escape.

Who is most vulnerable?

• The victims are most often single drivers with belongings on the passenger

seats;

• Criminals tend to focus on female drivers, well knowing that they are less likely to chase after them;
• Drivers who are distracted are most vulnerable – those busy on the cellular phone or with a cigarette in their hand; and
• Vehicles left unattended away from the crowds and with valuables visible are easy targets for a quick smash-and-grab.

Methods Used and Modus Operandi

Criminals’ methods and modus operandi include:

• Criminals will focus on those areas where they know traffic is often congested.
• Where vehicles will remain stationary for a while.
• These criminals also will often work in pairs, where one will pose as a vendor, distracting the attention of driver while the other will perform the smash-andgrab from the passenger side.
• Objects are sometimes placed on the road, and motorists make the mistake of leaving their vehicles to remove these objects. This is when the vehicles are easily targeted.
• Communication technology, such as cellular phones, has also enabled these criminals to identify potential victims from a bridge or position of elevation and to relay this message to their partners in crime further along the road; and
• The person making the smash-and-grab will most likely select the scene of the crime as an area where a fast getaway would be possible for him, and any pursuit would be difficult.

Advice on preventing smash-and-grabs

Even though it is not always possible to avoid the so-called “hotspots” where these criminals prey on unsuspecting motorists, it is possible to reduce the risk of becoming a smash-and-grab victim. Motorists can make this crime more difficult. Smash-and-grab thieves do not want difficult challenges and would rather prefer to move on when they suspect hurdles to the swift execution of these crimes.

We would like to advise the following measures:

1. Safe Driving
   • Lock all your doors and close the windows when driving.
   • Never open vehicle windows or doors for strangers.
   • Avoid opening your windows or getting involved in discussions with street vendors or anyone handing out flyers.
   • Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious-looking characters.
   • Always be conscious of your surroundings and remain alert when coming to an intersection or stopping your vehicle.
   • Be wary of people standing at intersections – They may be innocent, but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to
   • If you encounter obstacles such as rocks or tyres, do not get out of your vehicle to remove them -immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite
   • If it is late at night, slow down well in advance so that the light changes green by the time you reach the intersection.
   • Leave a gap between you and the car in front of you to give you room to escape (i.e., drive away from the scene), if anything should happen; and
   • Be especially wary whenever you see broken glass lying on the road. If the pieces of glass are still scattered across the road, chances are that a smashand-grab occurred just recently.
2. Taking Away the Attraction

It is important to note that Smash-and-grab car burglars are not exactly criminal masterminds. Many simply act on impulse. It is therefore critical to note the following:

• Reduce the chances of becoming a target by removing that which the criminals are trying to get their hands on.
• Do not have bags, cellular phones, briefcases, or other valuables visible inside the vehicle – valuables only attract thieves who may break your car
• Hide your valuables. – Car floors, dashboards, and seats are not good places to leave items.
• If you cannot take valuable items with you, hide them out of sight in your trunk/boot.

3. Safety when Parking

The following are some of the steps that can be taken for the safe parking of your vehicle:

• Thieves target car parks. Always park your car in attended parking lots.
• When parking at night, ensure that you always park in a well-lit area;
• Keep your car visible. Thieves do not want witnesses – you can help prevent a smash-and-grab by parking your car in crowded areas near pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
• Never sit in your vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings;
• Lock your doors and roll up your windows when you park.
• Activate your security system.
• Consider window tinting (if permitted by local laws).
• Avoid using the console or glove box as mobile lockboxes;
• Do not hand a car burglar your keys. Leaving your key on the dash or in the ignition is an invitation to a burglar. And keep in mind that if you have a great hiding place for a spare key (in your wheel well or above your sun visor), a thief has thought of it, too.
• Stow your belongings, like shopping bags and laptops, in the trunk/boot before you get to the parking area.

4. Window Safety Film

What is a “smash-and-grab” film?

5. Alarm systems and sensors

Systems can include several types of sensors that detect when there is a break-in Those include:

• Door Sensors: Detect if a door is opened without authorization.
• Motion Sensors: Some cars have systems that detect motion using ultrasonic waves. This is the perfect type of system to effectively alert car owners to break-ins and ‘smash and grab’ thefts.
• Glass Break Sensors. Detect the sound of breaking glass, alerting the system to a potential window break-in.
• Pressure Sensors. These detect changes in the air pressure inside your vehicle. So, if a window is broken or your doors are forced open, the sensor will trigger some sort of alarm.
• Tilt Sensors: Detect if the vehicle is being tilted or lifted, which can indicate it is being towed away.

By utilizing a combination of these sensors and a robust alarm system, car owners can significantly enhance their vehicle’s security and potentially prevent theft and damage.

Conclusion

The cautious driver will be able to prevent most incidents of smash-and-grab. If there
is nothing to grab, there is no reason for the window to be smashed! Trust your

instincts. If you notice suspicious activity, please find an alternative parking location.

As a motorist, you are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the proper

authorities – you can help prevent others from becoming victims of a smash-and-

grab or other crime.