Smashandgrab crimes are on the rise in Cape Town, South Africa, with a significant increase during November and December 2023. The trend of ‘window shopping’ is becoming more audacious, with criminals scoping out potential victims and CCTV recording increasing suspicious activity. Despite awareness drives and law enforcement efforts, public indifference and apathy towards personal safety hinder progress. Motorists are advised to secure their belongings, and citizens are urged to report any suspicious activities. A culminating community effort and individual responsibility are necessary to fight back against this surge in opportunistic crime.
