There has been a resurgence of car theft on campus, linked to the economic downturn, which is expected to fuel crime across the board, say Campus Protection Services (CPS).

CPS crime prevention manager Gary Dyssel has urged the UCT community to ensure that cars parked on campus and the surrounding environs, are locked and that any goods in the car (tog bags, CDs, sunglasses, etc) are not left in view.

Laptops are also being targeted. CPS recently exposed a syndicate with orders for specific laptops and software.

During a recent CPS visit to a residence, seven rooms were found unlocked, and with laptops plugged in and running inside.

Student apathy did not help the situation, said Dyssel, and continues to be a problem, despite the recent crime awareness campaign and regular crime bulletins posted on residence notice boards.

CPS has also cautioned women students and staff not to walk alone, particularly not along Grotto or Stanley Roads where there have been muggings. They have urged women to use the Jammie Shuttle whenever possible.

Trespassing also remains a problem. CPS recently arrested a man on campus, found to be carrying a firearm and multiple rounds of ammunition in a tog bag.

Please report any suspicious people or behaviour to the 24-hour CPS control centre on ext 2222/2223.