The Douglasdale CPF warns of the consequences of unreported crimes
The CPF urges residents to report incidents to ensure accurate crime reporting, adequate policing resources, and enhanced community safety.
Smash-and-grab incidents have become an all-too-familiar scourge in Fourways, with residents increasingly falling victim to these brazen crimes.
However, a worrying disconnect has been discovered between the frequency of these incidents and the number of reports being filed with the police.
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According to the Douglasdale Community Policing Forum (CPF), many residents are failing to report smash-and-grab incidents, potentially hindering efforts to combat this growing problem.
“The failure to open a case directly impacts the apprehension and prosecution of suspects. When no formal case exists, arrested individuals may be released due to lack of, or insufficient, evidence, only to continue their criminal activities,” said the CPF’s public relations officer, Freda Boiles.
She said opening a case contributes to data that better tracks crime trends, allocation of police resources, and enhanced community safety.
“It is a pivotal action that bolsters the effectiveness of law enforcement systems.
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“The gap in unreported cases distorts crime statistics having a negative outcome on resource allocation and strategic planning by promoting blind spots and compromising community safety. Strategic planning and resource allocation are pivotal to our community’s safety and security, as well as to an effective emergency response when needed.”
She added that opening a case allows the authorities to link a suspect to other cases ensuring more effective prosecution of perpetrators.
“It also enables the chances of reclaiming your stolen items, seized by the authorities, upon an arrest of a suspect.
“Accurate crime reporting is crucial to ensure that police stations are adequately equipped. If crimes are not reported, it is assumed the area has no crime and has no need for more policing resources.”
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