Avoid falling victim to crime
BRAMLEY – King said that alcohol abuse can also often result in the loss or robbery of cell phones.
Bramley Police Station Commander Colonel Owen King provided some advice to local residents to help them avoid becoming victims of crime.
King listed a number of common mistakes made by residents which could put them in dangerous situations.
“Some residents trust unknown people too easily. Driveway gates are left open or unlocked. Bathroom windows are not closed when going to bed. Burglar gates and doors are left open for pets to relieve themselves overnight. Electric fencing is left unarmed. Beams are not armed,” said King.
He added that on-premises where homes have been converted into communes there was no access control.
“Criminals come and go as they please. Residents rob and steal from each other.”
He said another common problem was residents who flashed their wealth and attracted unsavoury characters. Others carried expensive devices openly and soon became victims to street robbers.
King said alcohol abuse could also often result in the loss or robbery of cellphones.
“Cellphones are stolen and sold to syndicates who breach security features on the phone and access banking accounts that are then emptied.”
People who purchased pets and vehicles online without physically seeing what they were buying were often scammed of large amounts of money.
King advised residents to be aware of their surroundings, become more active in ensuring their own personal safety and secure their property.
“Develop a suspicious attitude towards things that seem to be out of place or behaviour that is unusual. Don’t take things for granted. Get to know your neighbourhood and the people that live in it. Develop a relationship with your neighbour… Empower yourself not to become a victim. Get to know crime hotspots in your neighbourhood as well as on routes to and from work.”
King also encouraged property owners to secure their properties.
“A well-secured property is a deterrent.”
He said that if finances were available, residents should install a perimeter wall or fence, look at installing cameras, electric fences, beams, burglar proofing and gates, install lights in dark areas of the property and trim overhanging trees that criminals could use to climb onto to access your property.
He encouraged residents to discuss target hardening with their SAPS Sector Commander, affiliate with a reputable security company and join the neighbourhood watch group in their area.
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