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Statistics show that crime rates in South Africa have previously surged
by over 50% in the lead-up to and during the Festive Season.
Research from criminologists reveals that violent crimes, including murders, increase significantly during hot summer months.
This period aligns with South Africa's holiday season, from December to early January.
This seasonal rise in crime is attributed to several factors: higher temperatures often correlate
with increased aggression, and larger crowds gather in public spaces, such as beaches and holiday spots,
creating more opportunities for criminal activity.
The Festive Season also brings with it an increase in alcohol consumption and social gatherings,
both of which can escalate tension and reduce inhibitions, contributing further to the uptick in incidents.
Law enforcement agencies typically report higher incidences of violent crime, theft,
and vehicle-related offences during this period, emphasising the need for heightened vigilance.
TRAVELLING AND GOING ON HOLIDAY:
To avoid hijacking, leave at least one car length of space between you and the car in front of you at traffic lights or stop signs, giving you room to escape if needed.
Keep an eye out for people standing near intersections, as criminals often use blind spots to approach.
Always park in well-lit, busy areas, ideally near security cameras or guards.
Share your planned route with a friend or family member, and consider using live location sharing on your maps app.
Regularly update your location every 15-20 minutes so they know where to start looking if you do not arrive as expected.
Equip your car with an emergency kit containing essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, a strong, fully charged power bank, and water.
Your car first-aid kit will be particularly useful in case of poolside slips, cuts, or burns while on holiday.
SAFETY AT HOME:
Make sure your home security system is connected to an active monitoring service.
Install outdoor lights with motion sensors and lock all windows and doors securely.
Secure any outdoor furniture, ladders, and garden equipment that could potentially be used to gain access to your home.
Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property, collect mail, take the refuse bin out and back in again, and report any suspicious activity.
It is critical to give the impression that your home is not vacant.
For example, a light timer can automatically switch lights on and off in different rooms at night. You can also set timers or ask your neighbour to open and close blinds or curtains, creating the appearance of an occupied home.
Leave a spare key with a trusted friend, family member or neighbour in case of emergencies, like a burst pipe.
Ensuring that your pets are well cared for while you are on holiday is crucial for their safety, comfort, and well-being.
A professional pet sitter or a reliable friend can visit daily or stay in your home.
Ensure they know your pet's routines, needs, and personality.
SCAMS AND FRAUD:
Always verify the legitimacy of the site from which you are buying.
Stick to well-known, reputable websites with "https" in the URL.
Criminals often use fake ads and phishing emails to mimic actual retailers.
Avoid hasty payments, as scammers rely on the urgency of the season, expecting you to rush into transactions.
They may lure you into "urgent" deals or donation scams.
Always double-check the details.
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
Scammers often use phrases like "This is a once-in-a-lifetime deal if you purchase now!" to create a sense of urgency and to pressure buyers into making quick decisions.
Such emotional language is a common tactic used to bypass logical thinking and push people toward impulsive actions.
High-pressure tactics, for example, imposing strict time limits ("act now" or "offer ends soon") or suggesting exclusive access ("limited spots available just for you"), are clear red flags of a potential scam.
These methods prey on the fear of missing out (FOMO) and capitalise on emotions rather than offering genuine value.
Legitimate offers rarely require immediate action or use such intense pressure, as reputable companies allow time for customers to make informed decisions.
Extensive vetting is critical before making donations, as many scammers take advantage of holiday generosity.
Before making donations, research the organisation.
Legitimate charities have clear, visible records.
Use credit cards or secure online platforms with buyer protection.
Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking or shopping.
Regularly check bank statements for unauthorised transactions, particularly during the holiday season when fraudulent charges can blend into holiday spending.
GENERAL HOLIDAY SAFETY MEASURES:
Stay alert in unfamiliar areas, watching people and activities around you.
Limit distractions, such as looking at your phone, especially in busy areas.
Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, particularly at night.
Carry minimal valuables. Use a secure, preferably hidden, bag or money belt for essential items.
Avoid displaying cash, electronics, or jewellery.
Dress modestly and avoid flashy clothing or accessories.
Try not to draw attention to yourself with expensive items or excessive luggage.
When driving, keep doors locked and windows up.
Be wary of unofficial car guards or beggars at intersections.
Choose reputable hotels or guesthouses with good security, especially if travelling alone.
Use room safes for valuables and lock doors and windows securely.
Avoid rooms on the ground floor, if possible, as these can be more accessible to intruders.
Drink responsibly and know your limits. Alcohol makes you an easier target.
Never leave your drink unattended and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
Keep your belongings close when at bars, clubs or any other public space.
Make copies of your passport, ID, and other essential documents, and store them separately from the originals.
Consider carrying a digital backup of your documents for easy retrieval if needed.
Keep friends or family updated on your whereabouts, sharing itineraries if possible.
Have a phone with local emergency numbers saved, including the South African Police Service (10111) and a reliable friend or family contact.
Use ATMs in well-lit, populated areas (preferably inside banks or shopping centres).
Be cautious if someone offers unsolicited assistance; keep your PIN hidden and avoid large withdrawals in public.
Have backup plans if your phone runs out of battery, gets lost, or has no signal.
Print out essential contact details, accommodation addresses, and a basic area map.
SSS will continue to keep the public informed throughout the Festive Season by sharing regular updates
and warnings about potential crime risks.
These posts will highlight common scams, safety tips, and other critical information to help individuals
stay vigilant and safe during the holiday period.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.
This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:
Follow the link to our WhatsApp group:
"JOIN" to ensure you never miss our daily updates.
You will receive automatic notifications as soon as a new project is posted.
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
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