Dogs attacked: A warning sign that you’re next
Police issue warning: If your dogs are attacked you might become the target of a house robbery.
The West Rand Cluster Police have issued a warning to residents to be vigilant, especially if their dogs have been targeted, as house robberies are on the increase.
Also read: Gunmen poison dog and attack family
Captain Appel Ernst, the Randfontein Police spokesperson said that in a number of recently reported cases it was found that victims are attacked in the following manner:
When dogs bark, some residents leave the safety of their homes to investigate the situation and are then overpowered or shot at by criminals.
“The exact opposite also happens, in that the victims don’t react to the barking dogs at all. Dogs are our first line of defence and when they raise the alarm, we have to respond,” said Ernst.
If your dog alerts you, please investigate, but don’t go out of your home. Inform your neighbour to also have a look, but always observe from the inside of your house.
Ernst also said that residents should alert their security company, neighbourhood watch or CPF to also come and assist. Never dismiss the barking.
In other cases, our residents are careless, leaving doors, windows and even gates wide open. Everyone should take responsibility for their own safety. “Please take all possible actions to ensure the safety of you and your family,” said Major General Mateisi.
Also read: What to do if your dog is poisoned
The West Rand Trio Task team would appreciate any information regarding the house robbery suspects who are terrorising our communities.
On Friday, 24 February a 63-year-old man was shot in the face after four unknown male suspects overpowered him and his 62-year-old wife during a house robbery on their smallholding at Bootha plots. Their two dogs had been poisoned and the attackers allegedly used vienna sausages to conceal the poison.
Information may be provided anonymously to 079 496 6288, 082 413 2635 or 086 001 0111.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za  (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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