CRIMINALS who take advantage of the dark season will have nowhere to hide this winter.
This year, police aim to curb any crime activities in the region through various crime prevention programmes, including stop-and-search campaigns, and visibility.
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According to police, during the winter season, residents are often robbed of their money, cell phones and other belongings while walking towards their homes.
‘Because it’s almost winter and it’s starting to get dark very early, criminals lurk in unlit alleys and victimise people walking from bus stops to their homes.
‘Criminals threaten them with guns or knives and take their belongings,’ said King Cetshwayo SAPS cluster spokesperson, Capt Mbongeni Mdlalose.
Police have pleaded with residents to walk in groups and to avoid known criminal zones.
‘Residents must arrange for their family members to fetch them from bus stops after dark.
‘Secluded pathways must be avoided because that’s where these criminals hide,’ he said.
Mdlalose also warned locals to avoid hitchhiking on the N2 and R102 routes.
‘There have been many cases of people being mugged and victimised at places like the eSikhaleni turnoff and at the KwaDlangezwa traffic circle.
‘Criminals hide behind the bushes and attack them. This becomes a problem because when it’s dark, they can’t even identify their attackers, which makes these cases not easily solved.
‘We will increase our visibility, and plain clothed police officers will be deployed in areas to check all criminal activities. ‘We will be visible in malls, townships and towns to check for illegal firearms, and if people are compliant to Covid-19 regulations,’ he said.
Communities are advised to also begin neighbourhood watch groups and work closely with Community Policing Forums (CPF) and the SAPS.
‘Police cannot fight this crime wave alone, but when we work together, we can prosper. Residents are urged to report any crime activities or planning to the police,’ he said.
Police have also cautioned the public about leaving houses unattended.
They have further pleaded with residents to be more aware of crime prevention measures at all times.
‘If home owners are going away, they must ensure they get someone to look after their property.
‘When a house is left unattended, it provides criminals with the opportunity to break in and get away with belongings uninterrupted,’ said Mdlalose.
To report any criminal activities, residents can call 0800 10111 or visit SAPS stations near them. All reports are confidential.
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