Keep your property gates closed

The community is urged not to leave the gates open when working on their properties.

The Bedfordview Community Police Forum (BCPF) chairperson, Mr Gavin Henry, said even if people are moving house, or if helpers are working outside, the gates to the property should remain closed.

“If your gardener is working in your driveway, close the gate. Let him buzz you on the intercom when he wants to come in and out. Criminals drive around and look for opportunities to strike,” he said.

He added that if criminals see easy access, they might use it.

“If your helper also has a remote control to the gate, it might not help you. If he does not have it, criminals may try to force him to call you. But if you see something suspicious, you will have time to react. That can save you and your helper,” said Mr Henry.

“If the gate is open, or he has a remote, the criminals will have easy access. The first you will know of a problem is when the criminals knock on your door and you will not have enough time to react,” he said.

Mr Henry called on community members to be vigilant, especially during this time of the year.