Benoni police have urged domestic workers to be alert at all times following a number of house robberies and attempted break-ins in which domestics were targeted over the past few days.
Benoni SAPS spokesperson Capt Nomsa Sekele confirmed that the suspects drive a white Nissan bakkie with a canopy.
According to a local WhatsApp crime group, there was an attempted break-in on January 11 in Hull Road, Rynfield, and a white Nissan bakkie with a canopy was spotted on the scene.
ALSO READ:
Road users urged to be vigilant on Snake Road
On January 14, there was a house robbery in Leyds Street, Morehill, during which a domestic worker was tied-up and a white Nissan NP200 with two occupants was reportedly involved.
On January 16, in Madeley Street, Rynfield a house robbery occurred which involved three men in a white bakkie with a canopy.
The suspects apparently told the domestic worker they were assigned to do a meter reading, and they then tied her up when she opened for them.
Benoni CPF sector one member Kim Ferreira said the modus operandi in many of these incidents is for the suspects to gain access to the properties by telling domestic workers they need to do repairs or to lure them close enough to the gate to be able grab and force them to open it.
Sekele said they urge homeowners who leave their domestic workers at home during the day to fully inform them about contractors or people expected to work on their premises in their absence.
“Domestic workers need to contact their employers and inform them of unknown people wanting to gain entry and confirm their claims with their employers before granting them access,” said Sekele.
“It is important for the domestic worker not to grant strangers access to the premises before confirming with their employers.”
Ferreira also said there is a dark grey VW panel van with three occupants who claim to be doing marketing research.
“Don’t let them in, call and report immediately, they were last seen in Lakefield,” said Ferreira.
Safety tips to help domestic workers:
• When alone at home cleaning or working make sure that all the doors and windows are closed and locked.
• Do not allow anyone onto the property before confirming with the homeowner if they are expected for example electricians, meter readers or plumbers.
• Do not go out to the gate when someone is pressing the intercom or calling, rather talk over the intercom or through a window from inside the house.
• Be careful when putting out or fetching rubbish bins. Look around for any suspicious people and close the gate immediately.
• Be careful when hanging up or bringing in the laundry as suspects can jump over the wall and attack you. Be quick when you are outside and go back into the house locking the door again.
• Do not leave keys in the doors or security gates.
• If there is a panic button, carry it at all times, preferably where it is not visible.
• Make sure you always know an emergency number and the address where you are, in case of an emergency.
• Do not trust anyone and don’t give out any information about the property or your employers.
Sekele said always ensure that your domestic worker knows the local contact numbers of the police, local security companies and the sector police of your residential area.
To report a crime or any suspicious activities, contact the Benoni SAPS on 011 747 0000 or crimestop on 08600 10111.
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.
