Although all crime is a concern, the Edenvale SAPS station commander, Colonel Eddie Trollip, expressed greater concern about crime in residential areas and robbers posing as Home Affairs officials.
“Crime in residential areas, such as burglaries, is occurring more often,” said Col Trollip.
He said most of these incidents are crimes of opportunity.
“People often leave their doors unlocked, windows open and think it will never happen to them. Residential burglaries are taking place in the Avenues in Edenvale as well as in the estates in the Greenstone area.
“People have a false sense of security,” said Col Trollip.
He urged residents in closed off estates and in the Avenues to be aware of their surroundings. Residents should ensure they lock and secure their homes and property.
Theft of motor vehicles in the Greenstone area also remains problematic.
Col Trollip said there has also been an increase in the theft of truck batteries.
“Most truck batteries are situated outside the cab. They are easier to steal,” said Col Trollip.
He also warned residents against criminals posing as Home Affairs employees.
“Individuals come to your property claiming to be from the Department of Home Affairs. They are dressed professionally, carry the correct letterheads and look official, but they are deceiving the public. These individuals are not from Home Affairs and are in actual fact robbers.
“They carry a list and tell people they have to verify whether the person is a registered voter. They also say they need to verify whether you are the property owner. Once the person goes to the gate, they rob the person,” said Col Trollip.
