House break-ins spike in Durban North
Six crime incidents have been reported in Durban North and uMhlanga in the space of five days.
AN increase in crime has been reported in the Durban North and uMhlanga areas. Seven incidents were reported between 25 and 29 June.
According to Marshall Security, six of those incidents were house break-ins, while one was a house robbery.
On 28 June at about 3pm, a Durban North resident was assaulted after three armed robbers burst into his home on Marine View Avenue. “The robbers derailed the driveway gate and forced open the front door while the resident’s son was inside, watching television in the lounge. The men burst in and held him up at gunpoint before locking him in the bathroom. The robbers hit the victim on the head with the firearm,” added Blue Security operations manager, Brian Jackson.
Haden Searles, the chairman of the Durban North/Umhlanga CPF, said that an increase in property crimes was normal at this time of the year. “Normally we do see a slight spike. It is nothing out of the ordinary, but still a major concern. We urge residents to take precautions in order to protect their homes and loved ones. Despite warnings being promoted for a number of years, some residents are still being careless by leaving windows open and doors unlocked. In many instances the criminals simply walk into people’s homes,” he said.
Brian Daish, the chairman of the Umgeni Park CPF sector 4, confirmed that the house break-ins were primarily executed during the day when the home owners are away.
He added that another sweep had been conducted on Riverside Road and that authorities had made several arrests.
Safety tips:
– Always activate the alarm. Have your security company install the alarm system so that you can still move around in your home while it is activated.
– Join your local neighbourhood watch (NHW) and CPF, and attend meetings to gleam information about crime in your area.
– Warn your domestic and gardener not to allow anyone on your property without your permission and educate them about emergency numbers and the procedures to follow should there be an emergency.
– Ensure that all windows and doors are locked.
– Installing an electric fence, beams and camera surveillance system is recommended.
– Install mechanisms that will lock sliding doors from the bottom and top to prevent criminals from lifting them off the rails. Similar mechanisms can be implemented on gates.
Report all crimes to 10111 first – then phone your security company, NHW and CPF.
Read more:
Shots fired, three arrested in house break-in
Durban North crime stats show slight increase
Roof tile thief caught in the act
