This is after a Douglasdale resident was shot dead in his home on the evening of 4 February.
According to Warrant Officer Balan Muthan, head of communications for the Douglasdale police, it is alleged that the family was having supper in the kitchen, when two suspects entered the home and tied down a man and his family with shoe laces.
He further said that the suspects allegedly shot the deceased victim and stole various valuable items in the home.
“We are still interviewing the deceased’s family and putting together an identity kit for the suspects,” Muthan said.
It is also alleged that suspects attempted to steal a vehicle on the property but were unsuccessful. An intensive manhunt is underway for the suspects.
“It is important the community members exercise greater vigilance and safety, in the wake of the crime incident that took place in Douglasdale,” Berdou said.
He added that the following tips for resident’s safety are highlighted as follows:
- Well-lit properties are usually avoided by criminals
- Dogs that are left to freely roam the property are a greater deterrent for criminals
- A property maintained alarm system and perimeter monitoring are an excellent deterrent
- An automated gate and anti-lift bracket is strongly recommended
- When not present in a room either lock the entrance to such a room or security gate
- Be aware and keep an appropriate vigilance for your neighbours as well. Report all suspicious activity to police or Security Company
- Get involved in Community Policing Forum activities and neighbourhood watch, and assist with proactive crime preventions.
“The safety of a community should be among the community’s highest priority. It is also important to remember that criminals prey on the public’s lack of proper care and attention, and a divided community is far easier for criminals to operate in. When a community stands in unity it becomes a case of not just 400 police officers to be avoided but 4 000 vigilant residents as well,” Berdou concluded.
Details: 011 699 1300
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