Motorists in Zimbabwe are being urged to exercise caution when carrying valuables in their vehicles, particularly in public areas such as shopping centres, parking lots, service stations, restaurants and busy streets.
Security experts say one of the most common mistakes motorists make is opening a vehicle boot in public and placing handbags, laptop bags, shopping bags or other valuables inside while being observed. Criminals often monitor unsuspecting motorists, identify vehicles containing valuables and later follow them until the owners leave their cars unattended.
In many cases, thieves break a window, gain entry into the vehicle and open the boot from inside within minutes. Victims often lose laptops, cash, important documents and other personal belongings.
A recent incident circulated on WhatsApp involving a vehicle break-in at Long Cheng Plaza has renewed concerns over the growing trend. According to reports, a motorist’s bag was stolen from the boot of a parked vehicle. The stolen items allegedly included identification documents, a driver’s licence and bank cards. The victim later appealed for assistance in recovering the dumped documents.
Motorists are advised to avoid displaying valuables in public altogether. Security experts recommend keeping valuable items concealed before arriving at a destination rather than transferring them into the boot in full view of strangers.
Drivers are also encouraged not to leave bags or electronic devices visible on seats or in easily accessible areas inside vehicles.
Another key precaution is removing valuables from vehicles whenever leaving them unattended, even briefly. Criminals are known to watch targets patiently and act when an opportunity arises.
Motorists are further encouraged to park in secure, well-monitored areas where possible and to report suspicious activity to police or security personnel.
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Authorities say simple changes in habit can significantly reduce the risk of theft and prevent financial loss, inconvenience and emotional distress.
