The Linden SAPS have responded to various house robberies this week, involving a domestic worker being threatened by the suspects.
The most recent robbery occurred on 11 February on Hans Schoeman Road.
Three suspects jumped the wall and overpowered the domestic worker.
On 10 February another domestic worker was overpowered on Melia Road in Blairgowrie.
Another robbery took place on Shaw Street, where suspects jumped over the fence and forced the domestic worker into the house.
Another incident occurred on Grove Street also involved a domestic worker being overpowered. The suspects pretended that they were coming in to put in carpets and stole over R200 000 worth of property. The arm of the gate was broken by the suspects.
According to Linden Police Operations Commander Captain Alex Vermaak, the robberies are occurring during the day between 9.30 am and 2pm.
“The problem is that alarms are not activated, doors are not closed when the domestic workers are out of the house doing washing,” explained Vermaak.
He added that the community needs to empower their domestic workers by teaching them how to use their alarm systems, and showing them where panic buttons are.
“There are various relevant training programmes offered in the area to empower domestic workers and teach them what do in an emergency situation such as a robbery.”
Capt Vermaak emphasised that it is important for employees to make sure that their domestic worker is properly trained because it could one day save your life.
He further advised the community to know that they can properly trust their domestic workers by having their relevant papers kept in a safe place.
“The responsibility of your safety is your responsibility, don’t let that pass you by,” warned Capt Vermaak.
