The Benoni Police Station has noted a sharp increase in house burglaries and robberies since the beginning of October in areas including Northmead, Farrarmere, Airfield, and Rynfield.

According to Vispol Commander Colonel Sinothi Ndaba, the spike in cases extends beyond the borders of Benoni, with similar incidents also being reported in Boksburg and Boksburg North.

From October 13 to 19, five cases were opened at the police station.

“It is alarming that so many cases were reported during a six-day period,” he said.

“Investigations indicate that in most instances the crimes were committed by opportunistic criminals; however, the involvement of a syndicate has not yet been excluded.”

ALSO READ: Theft of outdoor beams on the rise

Reported incidents include:

• Northmead house robbery, October 13 – Five suspects derailed the gate and forced entry through the back door of a house in Sonneblom Street at 12:30. A domestic worker and child were ordered to lie on the floor while the assailants ransacked the home. Laptops and TVs were stolen before the suspects fled in a black Toyota Starlett, registration LP 53 LL GP.

• Airfield house robbery, October 15 – An elderly woman was accosted in her Wellington Street home at noon. It is alleged that two young men gained entry after scaling the perimeter wall. Money was stolen.

• Rynfield house robbery, October 16 – Two men entered a home in Goodman Street at about 12:15, forcing the elderly resident to remove her ring. Her cellphone was also taken. The homeowner was able to temporarily restrain one of the suspects, but both fled the scene.

• Airfield house robbery, October 18 – Two men gained access to a cottage on a Warwick Street property at about 19:30. The resident was ordered to lie on the floor while the assailants ransacked the residence. A laptop was stolen.

• Northmead house break-in, October 19 – Two TVs were stolen from a home in Sonneblom Street while the residents were sleeping.

“Various interventions have been actioned in an effort to combat these crimes and to bring those responsible to book,” said Ndaba.

“We have enlisted the help of various stakeholders, including private security companies and the Benoni CPF.”

He further explained that the perpetrators of these crimes appear to be on foot and are targeting high-value household items that are easy to conceal and transport.

“Investigations indicate they gain access to homes through doors or gates. We appeal to the community to take ownership of their safety by ensuring that doors and gates are securely locked at all times,” he said.

“Report any suspicious persons or vehicles to the dedicated CPF Sector WhatsApp groups, security companies, or by calling 10111. By working together, we can curb the increase in crime, keeping our loved ones and neighbours safe.”

ALSO READ: Bakkie thefts on the rise in Benoni warns CPF