Roodepoort Police have highlighted areas that the community needs to be especially alert to.
1. An upsurge in rape cases
There has been an increase in incidents of rape, especially in the Matholesville area. Residents are urged not to walk through the open fields in that area, especially at night. Reports have been received of a gang of between four and six men that have been attacking and raping women in the area. Women are advised to stay in well-lit areas and not to travel alone.
2. House robberies increasing
Residents are asked to be vigilant when securing their homes. Special caution needs to be taken when closing and opening gates and doors. Always ensure that gates are properly locked. Also pay attention to those loitering in the street around your home. Should you see any suspicious activity, please inform your closest police station.
3. Drug use is unacceptable
Roodepoort Police will be launching a drug awareness and crackdown campaign, and there will be a zero tolerance approach towards drug offenders. A special mention must be made of marijuana. It is illegal to smoke marijuana in public and anybody found doing so will be arrested.
4. Domestic violence on the rise
Victims of domestic violence are urged to report it to the nearest police station. The local court will issue a protection order. This is an interim order and should the perpetrators re-offend, they will be held in contempt of court and the offence will become subject to arrest.
5. Missing persons
Should a family member or loved one suddenly become missing, please report that immediately. There is no time limit on reporting missing persons, so do so as soon as you suspect someone may be missing. Make sure to have a picture of the missing person, a detailed account of what they were wearing when last seen, and a list of possible identifiable features. Every detail is important, no matter how small.
6. Report bad service
The police are aware of incidents of poor service and they wish to improve their customer relations. If you feel the police have dealt with you improperly, please request to complete an A1 form. Also detail the incident as accurately as possible. While the police do strive to deal with every case as efficiently as possible, it is important to remember that Roodepoort Police have roughly 300 officers for the approximately 140 000 Roodepoort residents.
