A violent incident dubbed ‘smash and grab’ which occured when Minister Dr Dikoloti was attacked by thugs near Total Filling Station in 2022, which is one of the ‘smash and grab’ hotspots in Broadhurst is reported to have resulted in the United States issuing a security alert to its citizens.
A security alert issued by the American Embassy in Gaborone, reminded “U.S. citizens of the importance of personal safety best practices when addressing security risks in Botswana.”
The security alert states that non-confrontational crime and crimes of opportunity, primarily the theft of money and personal property, are common.
“Home invasions, break-ins, “smash and grabs” from vehicles at intersections and from locked cars in shopping mall parking lots, cell phone thefts, and muggings – often at knife point, are routinely reported to police,” the security alert said.
The U.S. Embassy in Gaborone recommended in particular vigilance while in isolated areas or in any location where there are not many people. The US embassy warned its citizens to “Be cautious and vigilant as you go about your daily routine.”
It also warned it citizens to “Avoid walking or jogging alone, even in the daytime. Travel with a companion or group if possible, stay alert when entering or exiting your vehicle or residence.”
It also states that “Do not drink and drive. Avoid travel at night if possible, especially near the end of the month and avoid leaving valuables in your car, when possible use a physical key to lock your car as criminals have been known to jam remote fob signals.”
The security alert also warned its citizens to keep car windows up and doors locked at all times and be aware of their surroundings, “especially at intersections where “smash and grab” incidents are frequent.”
“Make sure your vehicle is in good operational condition. Always leave space between your car and the car in front of you in case you need to maneuver out, Discarded packaging of expensive electronics lets crimnals know what to look for in a house. Consider keeping these boxes out of sight before taking them to a recycling center. Carry only essential items with you, and avoid perceived displays of wealth (expensive watches, flashy jewelry, etc.)” the Embassy said.
The US security alert also advised its citizens that if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. “Remove yourself from the situation and do not confront or investigate further. Call the police as soon as it’s safe to do so. Keep your mobile phone charged and have emergency numbers pre-programmed. Utilize all residential security features including routine use of deadbolt locks, padlocks, motion detectors, door, window, and fence alarms, and activate central alarm monitoring systems. Dogs kept inside can be a good deterrent, or other loud noise emitting devices such as air horns. Make your home a hard target,” the security alert states.
Following the incident in which Dikoloti was attacked, the Ministry of Health confirmed “that the Minister of Health and Wellness Hon. Dr Edwin G. Dikoloti was attacked by some thugs in Gaborone, on Friday evening.”
“However, contrary to some reports currently circulating on social media, the Minister is not critical. He is stable and doing all his normal duties as always. He is even coming to work tomorrow,” Christopher Nyanga, the ministry’s spokesperson said in a statement.
