House robbers apply new modus operandi
VANDERBIJLPARK.- In a community meeting held in SE 4 recently, CPF Vanderbijlpark Sector 3’s manager highlighted a modus operandi that is being used by criminals in committing house robberies.
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Suspects would arrive and call on gardeners or cleaners and gain access to a premises by pretending to be sent by the owner to look at pre-paid electricity meters as there is a problem with it.
“In other incidents, suspects would approach residences whose homes are in the market for sale under the blanket of wanting to buy cash, victims then allow them entry upon which they get tied up and robbed,” CPF’s sector manager said.
“These crimes are not only committed by males as it became evident that in cases victims will mention females also part of these groups.”
The sector manager sensitized the community to go back and discuss this with their workers.
“Never allow any access if the owner is not present” to those that have premises for sale, “Never allow a viewing under any circumstances if the agent is not present.”
He also sensitized the community about an increase in property related crimes which is our burglaries, theft of vehicle and petty thefts.