A Fourways resident, Elke Zellmer took exception to a comment in the Let the cops do their jobs article which appeared in Midrand Reporter and Fourways Review Week ending 27 May.
She stated, “Steven Johnstone is quoted as saying, ‘… house robberies are on the rise… mostly due to negligence by homeowners’. I nearly had an allergic reaction when I read that.
“I would like to remind everyone that victims of crime have done nothing wrong. In this case, homeowners who leave a window open or don’t have an alarm system, are most definitely not the problem, and they are most definitely not ‘negligent’.”
Zellmer said people who break the law are the problem. “To effectively blame victims of crime for causing crime is unacceptable, it’s a bit like saying a rape victim was asking for it. It’s the type of sloppy thinking that plays right into the hands of criminals because it minimises their guilt.
“Taking some basic crime prevention measures in our societal context is sensible but, at the end of the day, let’s not lose perspective and remember that the parties who actually deserve censure are the criminals.”
When asked for comment on Zellmer’s sentiments, Steven Johnstone pointed out, “It is a known fact that thieves are opportunists. If a window is left open it is an invitation to be burgled. I have personally been on crime scenes where laptops and handbags have been removed through an open window. We regularly patrol the areas within the Midrand precinct and find properties with front gates open and the owners or tenants are unaware of it until we inform them.”
He stressed that the security of the property and possessions remains the responsibility of the owner. “I agree the people that break the law are the problem. But as a community, we need to stand together and fight crime. Become an active member of your local Blockwatch and patrol your area. Remembering that if you witness a crime in progress, contact your sector Saps and report it,” said Johnstone.
“I am not saying that the victims of crime are causing the crime. But I’m saying we must be more vigilant and take responsibility for our own safety. There is no minimising the criminals’ guilt as they are guilty of perpetrating a crime and must be arrested and jailed,” he stated.
He urged people to remember that the South African Police Service and the Community Policing Forum request the community to be the eyes and ears for them.
If you are aware of any criminal activity, anonymously inform Midrand Police Station on 011 347 1600 or Fourways Police Station on 011 699 1300.
Read more:
Top tips to foil smash and grabs
Midrand police tips to avoid vehicle-related crimes
Tips to prevent house robberies
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