Police urge public to be on alert

As the countdown to the festive seasons begins, the Kathorus Cluster SAPS have issued a warning to local residents to make sure they do not become statistics of the holiday crime wave.

Police spokesperson Captain Mega Ndobe, appealed to the community of Kathorus to take extra precautions at home and on the road as we approach the festive season. “At home people should make sure that their property is safe and that it is not easily accessible to criminals at all hours of the day and night,” said Ndobe, who warned that this is the time of year when criminals are also out to make extra cash.

“People should realise that criminals are also people like them and that, like everybody else, they (criminals) also make plans for the festive season. That is why they break into homes and steal, so that they make extra Christmas cash during the festive season,” Ndobe explained.

According to Ndobe the police have drawn up a list of priority crimes which they say are rife over the festive season. And with many families going away on holiday, criminals are aware that most homes will be left vulnerable and easy to break into and rob.

“We therefore urge residents to ensure that all garden implements and equipment should be kept in a safe place and locked away. Your postbox should also be the first thing that you clear out and make sure there are no overflowing letters, which are often the first give-away to criminals that you are not home.

Ndobe also warned local residents not to leave their homes in complete darkness during the holidays. “Speak to your trusted neighbour to keep a regular check on your property when you are not at home. The neighbour can also keep an eye on the people who visit your home during the holidays,” said Ndobe.

Individuals and families, who own dogs or other pets, should also ensure that the animals have adequate food and water during their absence. “Once again, your neighbour can play a vital role here in ensuring that your pets are fed and have enough clean water at all times,” explained Ndobe.

The police added that burglaries and break-ins into homes are not the only problems facing both the police and the community. “We are experiencing heavy rains and flooding and residents must make sure that, in the event of such a disaster happening during their absence, there will always be someone who can be their ears and eyes while they are away,” Ndobe said.

Ndobe added that the possibility of fire is also another major problem which people need to consider before they go on holiday. “Make sure that all your electrical appliances and lights are switched off, except of course for your outside lights. If you do not have a day-night switch, you can again approach your neighbour or member of the family to switch your house lights on and off.”

Ndobe also gave tips on the following:

· People should not buy stolen goods.

· Keep all receipts of goods you buy.

· Do not park vehicles outside yards.

· Theft from vehicles happens all the time even in a car park thus do not leave valuables in vehicles.

· If you are followed drive straight to the nearest police station.

· Keep all doors and windows in your car locked, especially at night.

· Do not give lifts to strangers, especially when driving alone at night.

· Practice caution when approaching a stop street at night.

· Do not drink and drive.

· Have the emergency numbers 112 on hand when driving, especially at night.

· Always attend your local CPF meeting to get the latest info on crime in your area.