NIGEL – SAPS Nigel are warning residents and business owners to increase security measures as several incidents of house break-ins and robberies have been reported last week.
A break-in occurred at a vacant house in Bartle Frere Street on July 17. Robbers gained access to the property after a security gate was forced open. Apart from damage to the property, light fittings, door handles, copper pipes and taps were reported stolen.
Two business (armed) robberies also occurred the same day in Hendrik Verwoerd Street. The first reported incident took place at a well-known fast food outlet, shortly before close of business when two men entered the shop under the pretence of being customers. One of the suspects was dressed in security uniform, while the other was described as wearing jeans, a striped jersey and beanie.
A fire-arm was produced and the men allegedly jumped over the serving counter, where staff members were demanded to open the safe. According to police spokesperson Sgt Nellie Dwaba, the robbers made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Almost the same time as this robbery occurred, the adjacent pizzeria was also being robbed. A staff member described to police how two African men entered the shop, when one suddenly jumped over the serving counter.
While aiming at her with a firearm, he demanded that she empty the cash register. A second suspect, described as wearing a navy blue sweater and grey hoodie, also reportedly assaulted one of the staff members. They made off with cash and cellphones.
A house robbery occurred around 12:30 in Leeds Road on July 18. According to the domestic worker, she was busy cleaning the house when she first noticed a car pulling into the driveway. After a short while, two African males whose faces were covered, made their way to the entrance gate, which was forced open to gain access to the property.
They reportedly grabbed the domestic worker by the arm and threatened to harm her if she did not take them to the money. The house was ransacked and the robbers made off with several household items, including a television, laptop, cellphones and jewellery. According to Sgt Dwaba, the domestic worker only managed to call for help after the robbers fled the scene.
No arrests have been made and police are investigating the robberies.
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