Residents of Deneys Conradie Residentia, in Railway Avenue, Western Extension, refuse to live in fear despite criminals seemingly prowling the facility’s parking area at night.
According to Siva Pillay, caretaker and resident, there has been a spate of break-ins – mostly targeting residents’ vehicles.
“We had three incidents in the past couple of weeks. Wheels were stolen from one vehicle and tool boxes from another,” said Pillay.
“Criminals also attempted to steal a motorcycle parked in a lockable shed.
“At this stage, criminals are gaining access through the barbed wire at the entrance gate, but in previous cases, criminals would merely use brute force to break the concrete palisades.”
He said not all residents are alarmed by the recent events, but there are those who fear there may soon be a residential break-in attempt.
“The residents of Deneys Conradie Residentia are mostly retired and over 60,” said CPF Sector 4 chairman, Alfie Koekemoer.
“It is concerning that opportunistic criminals are targeting the residents’ vehicles and probably fleeing towards the railway through the open veld. However, one cannot rule out that they may become more daring.”
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said she has become weary following the break-ins.
“I am startled by the slightest sound at night but breathe a sigh of relief when I see our dedicated CPF members patrolling,” she said.
Koekemoer continued by saying resident safety throughout the entire patrolling area is of utmost importance to the CPF and that additional care is given to facilities housing the elderly.
“We are committed to ensuring that all residents feel safe, valued and can live without fear,” he said.
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