The Edenvale SAPS plans for build a closer relationship with the Edenvale community in 2015.
This will be done through various planned projects, which will enable the community to join hands with the SAPS in the fight against crime.
The acting spokesperson for the Edenvale SAPS, Lieutenant Colonel Robbie Roberts, said festive season operations will run until the end of January.
“Apart from a few isolated incidents, it has been a quiet festive season with several good arrests by our members as well as members from other units,” he said.
Lt Col Roberts added that the property-related incidents reported in 2014 could mostly be attributed to residents not having adequate security at their homes.
“While many of the homes had security systems in place, some did not activate their alarms or ensure their security systems were working on a regular basis,” he said.
Lt Col Roberts said that throughout 2015, the SAPS will encourage residents to know their neighbours.
“We cannot stress this enough. By knowing who your neighbours are, everyone will be able to pick up on suspicious activity in their streets and neighbourhoods,” he said.
Other plans for 2015 include intensified joint operations to clamp down on motorists driving under the influence of alcohol in Edenvale.
“We will also place a strict focus on drugs again in 2015. We have seen far too many cases where drugs have destroyed families in Edenvale,” said Lt Col Roberts.
“In 2015 we need the community to work more closely with the SAPS. We need a proactive community which reports suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods,” said Lt Col Roberts.
“When we do not work together, we simply leave the criminals smiling. Let us join hands and take this on together. If you see a suspicious person or vehicle, report it to either the sector police vehicles or to the SAPS on 10111.
“Last year, a number of tip-offs from the community led to numerous arrests,” said Lt Col Roberts.
He added that residents and businesses should also make a point of improving their security.
“If you need assistance or advice, do not hesitate to visit the Edenvale Police Station; we are always willing to help,” said Lt Col Roberts.
“Lastly, we would like to remind residents that there is no easy way to get rich. Do not fall for scams which will see you out of pocket. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is,” he said.
