Police in Gqeberha are warning residents to be vigilant and take precautionary measures to ensure their premises are secure, as criminals are breaking into properties while residents are at home during, or just after load shedding.
Police have recorded increases in the Rowallan Park, Kunene Park, Kabega Park, Parsons Ridge and Westering areas.
According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, detectives discovered during investigations that in some cases sliding doors were left open, thus giving robbers easy access into the house. Many of these break-ins occurred between 22:00 and 04:00.
“The robbery on Wednesday, May 11, took place at about 01:46 in the morning, at a house in Huguenot Street in Kabega Park. The complainant was woken up by four men in balaclavas. One was armed with a firearm and one with a panga.
“He was struck with the panga on his left arm. A shot was also fired, but he did not sustain any injuries.
“Entry to the house was gained by forcing open the sliding door. A television set and cellphones were among items taken. The complainant was taken to hospital for treatment,” said Naidu.
She added that in all of the cases, multiple suspects were involved.
“Residents are advised to take another look at their current security measures and consider upgrading as their safety is a priority.”
- Make sure that sliding doors have security gates and both are locked when retiring to bed.
- Erect burglar bars on all windows that can open.
- Make sure your alarm system is working, and that the panic button is within reach in case of emergency.
- Never go outside if you hear a noise or to check on your dog’s constant barking. Instead, activate your panic alarm and phone the police and/or your security company.
“Police have stepped up vehicle and foot patrols in all of the above-mentioned areas. Loadshedding affects all and the SAPS are not exempt as, during these times, the phone lines are down.
Kabega Park residents are advised that should they not be able to get a hold of the police station or the 10111 centre lines, they can call the Operational Command Centre on 082 442 1282,” said Naidu.
