Armed robberies plague Japanese Gardens

LAST year, the eThekwini Municipality proposed a name change for the Durban North Japanese Gardens in an effort to ‘promote social cohesion’, however, it looks like crime may have the final say. This comes after another couple were robbed of their belongings by knife wielding suspects on Thursday evening. The incident occurred at about 4pm.

This is the fifth armed robbery this year and Durban North SAPS has expressed concern over the upsurge in crime at the municipal gardens.

According to the station’s Lt Raymond Deokaran two men approached the couple who were picnicking in the lower half of the gardens.

“One of the suspects armed with a knife demanded their valuables. The made off with their cellphones and wallet and escaped on foot. We suspect these robberies may involve the same men as the same modus operandi as earlier robberies was used,” he said.

Deokaran added said the crime prevention unit has stepped up patrols in the area to combat the armed robberies

In March two armed robberies rocked the tranquil spot, which occurred two days apart.

In the first incident two men also armed with knives held up a couple and made off with their watches and cellphones.

“In the second incident, two men, also armed with knives made off with the belongings of another couple. The men fled on foot and were seen running towards the bottom end of the gardens. We have informed park security about the incidents and ask motorists to remain vigilant,” he said.