Police are doing all they can to fight crime in the District, but they cannot do it alone and need the support of the community.
During just two of the weekly Operations O Kae Molao in the District in the first week of January 2021, a total of 297 people have been arrested for various crimes.
Captain Raymond Sebonyane, spokesperson for the West Rand District Police and Krugersdorp Police Station warned in general that the West Rand District has encountered an increase in priority crimes such as house robberies, murders and hijackings.
He said the ages of the victims of house robberies can range from infant to the most elderly, and perpetrators are armed, violent, cruel and aggressive.
They come face to face with their victims and show no mercy. At times even lives are lost and defenceless victims watch with dismay as they are robbed of their hard-earned belongings or robbed at gunpoint,” said Sebonyane.
The community is thus urged to work with the police in the fight against crime and to apply these tips:
• Ensure that doors and windows are properly locked and closed at all times.
• Make provision for good outside lighting but remember, outside lights that are on during the day draw the attention of the criminals.
• Ensure that your yard is neat and clean. Trees and bushy shrubs should be pruned and not planted close to a house as they can hide criminals.
• If possible, ensure that you have proper safety and security features at your house, like burglar proofing in front of windows, security doors and gates, and emergency alarms or panic buttons.
• You can also use a whistle to alert your neighbours in case of an emergency.
• Always check the identity of the strangers who visit for business purposes to do deliveries or repairs, before unlocking the door.
• Know your neighbours as they are close and can be of great help during any emergency.
• Remain calm during a robbery and give your full cooperation. Your life is worth more than any property.
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police commissioner emphasised that even the police must adhere to the Covid-19 protocols and they should wear their masks at all times, sanitize after each and every search, and wash their hands with running water and soap. He further encouraged the members to be operational-ready and protect each other.
Members of the public are encouraged to report crime or suspicious activities by contacting their nearest police station or calling the Crime Stop line 08600 10111. Information may also be conveyed to the police anonymously via the MySAPS App that can be downloaded on any smartphone.
