House break-ins and other criminal activities such as hijackings have been on the increase in the West Rand suburbs.
The Honeydew Community Policing Forum (HCPF) responded to a house robbery in Weltevreden Park on 29 February and used a tracking app to gather information. They established that the victim’s stolen phones were still nearby.
Some members started searching and the phones were discovered, hidden inside a paint tin on the side of the road.
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All of the evidence gathered was handed over to the Honeydew Police members who later arrived on the scene to investigate.
Another house break-in happened in the afternoon on 3 March at a residence on Soetdoring Street in Weltevreden Park.
The burglars allegedly broke open a pedestrian gate and gained access to the property. They later used a white Corsa bakkie with a white canopy to get away.
It is believed that a syndicate has been active in the area over the past few weeks and a lookout has been shared with the police and security companies.
“The community must be vigilant; especially when leaving their properties, they must always make sure that the alarm system is turned on. They should always empty their letter boxes. Gates should always be locked even if you are at home. Criminals are opportunistic and we need to educate the household staff about the matter,” said Honeydew Police spokesperson, Captain Balan Muthan.
Honeydew CPF provided the following safety tips for households:
• Keep emergency contact details stored on your phone or written down where everyone in the household can access them. Make sure that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
• Join your local residents association that shares the latest crime trends and has direct contact with your local CPF.
• Test your panic button and alarm on a regular basis, and ensure they are linked to your security provider.
• Ensure your gate is secured so that criminals cannot lift it off the rails and gain access to your property.
• If you plan a function at home during which cars will be parked outside on the street, get someone to look after the cars and provide them with a panic button to use if necessary.
• Look out for suspicious vehicles or individuals when entering or leaving your property, and notify authorities when necessary. Move swiftly when you enter or exit your property.
• Avoid giving criminals information of what is inside your home by leaving empty boxes of newly bought items in full view or outside on rubbish-collection day.
• Don’t leave car and house keys where they’re easily accessible – keep them stored away in a secure spot only members of your household know about.
