Claims of car hijackings at Vangate Mall have prompted security checks at the Athlone shopping centre after videos circulated on social media, raising concerns about shoppers’ safety.
The Manenberg Community Police Forum (CPF) and mall management investigated the allegations but found no evidence of the reported hijackings or vehicle thefts. They also confirmed that the centre’s surveillance cameras were operational.
Old videos fuel hijacking rumours
CPF chairperson Vernon Visagie said some of the videos being shared were from incidents that occurred several years ago, while others showed incidents that had not taken place at Vangate Mall.
One of the claims involved a man who reportedly believed his vehicle had been hijacked.
However, mall management established that the man had arrived in a hired vehicle and later discovered that it was still parked in front of him.
Visagie said the incident had been incorrectly presented as a hijacking.
“Those lies and rumours are not true. They are unfounded and inflammatory. We have done all with the mall management but found nothing,” Visagie said.
The CPF said it had checked the mall’s surveillance cameras and followed up with the relevant parties.
No hijacking cases linked to the social media allegations had been reported to the CPF.
Mall warns against spreading false crime reports
Mall management said some of the videos circulating online showed older incidents being presented as recent crimes.
“We urge the community to stop spreading false information and to verify reports before sharing them. Such rumours create unnecessary panic among shoppers,” management said.
The mall confirmed that its surveillance cameras were operational when checked and urged shoppers to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect their vehicles.
Management said it would continue working with the CPF and other stakeholders to address safety concerns.
Police unaware of hijacking cases
Warrant Officer Zita Norman said she was not aware of any car hijacking cases linked to the allegations.
The CPF and mall management urged residents to report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities rather than sharing unverified claims on social media.