STAFF and residents of relief organisation, the International Islamic Relief Organisation of Southern African, IIROSA were shocked and disappointed when they arrived on Monday morning to find their offices broken into for the third time within a month.
According to Karim Gat, the organisation, based in Montpelier Road, Morningside suffered the first break-in exactly a month ago. Gat, manager of IIROSA, said last week their bakkie was stolen from the office. “We even sent a letter to our neighbours asking them to help us find a solution to the crime after the second incident. This time the robbers came in about 5.30am. They broke our outside security gate, inside security gate, then broke our front door. We also have electric fencing and an alarm system,” Gat explained.
Two computers were stolen and Gat said the suspects had messed up their office in the robbery. “The electricity was off when we arrived, I believe the robbers might have switched off the trip. We didn’t get a call from our security company this time and even the last time they came ten minutes after the incident when the police were busy on scene, which is disappointing,” he said.
Despite the hits on the South African offices, the organisation continues with its relief work in 11 Southern African countries, including South Africa where they recently concluded drought relief work. Gat said the regional director, Sheikh Walid R El Saadi was busy in Zambia where he is meeting with Zambian first lady and vice president to discuss a mobile clinic project. “We are very disappointed as this is so bad, all our work is for the community and mankind in need,” he said.
Grant Smith, chairman of the Montpelier Road Security Initiative, said, “It’s sad that an organisation that does so much good is targeted. We have had a fairly good festive season but with the start of the new year, there has been a dramatic increase in theft of motor vehicles and housebreak-ins in the area.”
Smith appealed to residents to be aware of their surroundings and any suspicious activity. “If you see anything suspicious, notify your security company and police immediately. The best way to be aware is to join your local neighbourhood watch,” he advised.
