What question did this study set out to answer?

To investigate public perceptions, experiences, and situational drivers of smash-and-grab crimes, as well as community evaluations of policing and prevention strategies.

August 8, 2026Journal of Economic CriminologyOpen Access

Behind the glass: Examining the rise of smash-and-grab crimes, urban vulnerability, and perceptions of policing in gaborone

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To investigate public perceptions, experiences, and situational drivers of smash-and-grab crimes, as well as community evaluations of policing and prevention strategies.
Administered a qualitative online survey distributed through a public crime-focused Facebook page.
Analyzed qualitative responses from self-selected participants regarding crime causes, locations, impacts, and policing responses using criminological frameworks.
Participants attributed smash-and-grab offenses primarily to structural factors, including unemployment, poverty, and post-COVID-19 economic hardship, compounded by low confidence in police effectiveness.
Physical and situational vulnerabilities—such as poor lighting, traffic congestion, weak guardianship, and rapid escape routes—were reported to heighten fear of crime and alter urban mobility patterns.

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Implication

Qualitative survey uncovers drivers of smash-and-grab theft and low institutional trust among community respondents, highlighting the need for targeted policing and environmental design.

Cite This Study

Mashumba et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a8a637b4c30e1095aecad3e https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeconc.2026.100243

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Implication

Qualitative survey uncovers drivers of smash-and-grab theft and low institutional trust among community respondents, highlighting the need for targeted policing and environmental design.

Behind the glass: Examining the rise of smash-and-grab crimes, urban vulnerability, and perceptions of policing in gaborone

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

Behind the glass: Examining the rise of smash-and-grab crimes, urban vulnerability, and perceptions of policing in gaborone

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study