When compared to the statistics of September last year, crime, specifically serious crimes, decreased in the Cleveland SAPS policing precinct.
Despite the decrease, Cleveland SAPS spokesperson Capt Johan Jordaan urged community members to remain alert and to be vigilant of their surroundings.
“Crime is stable in the precinct; there was a slight decrease in crime.”
However, several crimes remain a concern for the station specifically theft of motor vehicles, assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm and domestic violence-related crimes.
Jordaan highlighted that the three crimes were occurring mostly in sector two (Kensington) and sector three (Malvern).
Tips given to motorists to try to prevent vehicle thefts included:
• To park cars in a safe area and not just on the street.
• Park vehicles in a well-lit and secure area when parking in a public area.
• Park the vehicle in a garage while at home.
• Make use of a steering lock and a gear lock.
• To make sure all the doors are locked by physically testing them.
• Know where your car keys are at all times.
• To ensure that all car windows are closed.
• To purchase and make use of a vehicle tracking device.
• Make sure that their vehicle tracking devices are working.
Jordaan explained that some of the assault GBH cases reported to the station are connected to domestic abuse crimes.
“The incidents of assault occur behind closed doors or on private property.”
Crimes which do occur on private property are often more difficult for police to act on unless it is brought to their attention.
Victims of assault, domestic abuse or people who know of these crimes are encouraged to report them to Cleveland SAPS.
Contact Cleveland SAPS on 011 607 5845/6.
Alternatively, report a crime to 10111 or 086 001 0111.