A SPATE of air conditioner thefts at several Richards Bay Central Business District (CBD) businesses has left owners fuming.
On Tuesday, the frustrated business owners from Bullion Boulevard, Paseta Parade and Rupee Rift roads met with Business Against Crime Manager Dave Whittaker to raise their concerns about the on-going thefts, which are negatively impacting their operations.
The hardest hit were Anne -V Stationers who had five units stolen in the last six months and their insurance company has refused to pay for two, labelling them high risk.
More than 10 units have been stolen in Bullion Boulevard and businesses are afraid that the few remaining will be taken soon if a solution is not found.
Owner of 4X4 Mega World, Nardus Jooste said criminals target the buildings in the early hours of the morning, removing the entire air-conditioning unit or just the copper wire and leaving behind the unit casing.
Nardus said trucks parked outside the business premises after hours also posed a problem and create an environment for criminals to strike without being detected by passing motorists.
In addition, they also negatively affect the outside appearance of the shops with oil spills and litter left in the parking area.
‘Businesses are experiencing the impact of tough economic times and have gone to lengths to secure our properties, but we need the police to take action.’
As each business had specific incidents and grievances, Whittaker advised them to put their complaints in writing, which he will deliver to the Richards Bay Station Commander.
‘As BAC we want to bridge a gap between businesses and police and establishing a Business Community Policing Forum (CPF) will create a platform for businesses to engage with police and raise their concerns and work together to combat the problems.
‘Business need to have a united voice and the reality is we have a situation now and must address it. We can take sufficient steps to stop becoming victims of crime,’ said Whittaker.
Companies interested in supporting the initiative to establish a Business CPF can email their details to info@baczul.org.za.
