Brixton Police Station is currently experiencing a rise in the number of cases opened by the student population in the precinct. According to the station’s spokesperson, Jeanette Backhoff, people walking on the street are seen as easy targets by criminals and she has called on everyone to be cautious.
She said, “Students and members of the community are warned to be extra vigilant [regarding] street robberies. Items taken are cell phones, laptops, tablets and cash. This occurs in all areas of the Brixton policing area but especially around UJ and student accommodation.”
Backhoff added that many of these robbery incidents took place during the day and suspects have been reported to be forceful and aggressive. “People of the community are requested to walk in groups and to congregate in groups when not at their place of residence or when in an unsafe environment.”
In addition to street robberies, Backhoff warned students to be responsible in avoiding being a victim of house robberies as well. “In a lot of the cases of this nature, we discover that the students didn’t close and lock gates and doors, making it easier for the criminals.”
She advised everyone to contact their nearest police station or security company if they saw anything suspicious around them. Backoff encouraged the community to report all crimes to the police station and share any valuable information they have on such crimes with them.
