Spike in house burglaries concerns Durban North SAPS

DURBAN North police have urged homeowners to ensure their properties are properly secured in an effort to curb incidents of house burglaries.

There has been a spike in incidents in the north Durban policing precinct involving the theft of small, easy-to-carry items.

Captain Raymond Deokaran, spokesperson for the station, said that in some cases, criminals had gained access through an unlocked sliding door or open window.

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Deokaran said the most recent cases occurred in Burleigh Crescent and Belmont Gardens.

“In the incident in Burleigh Crescent, the homeowner heard a noise and noticed the intruder near her bed. He threatened her with a knife and asked her for her valuables. He told her to stay silent before stealing a number of items. He then stole an iPhone, a MacBook and jewellery.

“We are urging homeowners to not be complacent by leaving their doors unlocked or windows open. While that might not have been the case with the latest incident, it is worrying that we are seeing incidents where criminals have gained access through an open door or window. It is a reason for concern, and while we have increased patrols, it is important for residents to be vigilant,” he said.

Deokaran added that some house burglaries also occurred where the homeowners had not armed their alarm systems.