AFTER seeing an increase in housebreakings and theft over the past few weeks, Amanzimtoti SAPS have warned residents to be vigilant at all times.
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Amanzimtoti SAPS communications officer, Captain Charlene van der Spuy, said in most cases, entry is gained through breaking the door or window.
“The Amanzimtoti SAPS is pleading with the community at large to work with them in an attempt to minimise housebreaking in the area. Together, we can decrease crime. It is important for the community to take responsibility in securing their homes as much as possible. Some criminals commit crime because there is an opportunity presented to them – be it an open window or unlocked door,” said Van der Spuy.
She shared the following tips:
· Make sure your doors and windows are locked at all times, especially when you are not within the premises.
· Leave lights on when going out in the evening.
· Do not leave your keys with people you do not trust.
· Do not leave your keys in the postbox or under the mat where people can see you collecting them or dropping them off.
· Try to ensure all windows and doors have burglar guards and locks.
· Remove bushy areas inside your yard as it poses a good hiding spot for opportunistic criminals.
· Create good relationships with your neighbours so they can be your eyes when you are not there and assist you in case of an emergency.
· Make sure your valuables such as jewellery, cellphones, laptops and any other electronic devices, cash, etc, are not visible from the outside when not in use. They must preferably be locked away in a safe that is not easily accessible.
· Have at least one dog which will always alert you when something suspicious is happening in and around your area.
· Be sure to contact the SAPS emergency number 10111 or your local station immediately if your house or neighbour’s house is being broken into.
· We are aware that the security companies you are linked to are normally the first responders.
· A criminal case needs to be reported to the police in order to identify hotspots and targeted areas.
· We are working hand in hand with all the security companies and neighbourhood watch groups in order to fight crime.
· Secure/safeguard all outbuildings and storage units on your premises, as they become easy targets.
· When you arrive home and you have suffered a housebreaking, report the incident to SAPS immediately. Do not touch anything, and wait for the arrival of the police to ensure it is safe to enter your home.
· A fingerprint expert will be booked by SAPS who will, in turn, come out to check for possible fingerprints left by the perpetrator.
· Positive fingerprints will be put on the criminal record database which could lead to identifying possible suspects and bringing them to book.
“Remember, if there is no report made to SAPS, there is no record of the incident,” said Van der Spuy.
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