Police and insurance companies are warning the public not to allow strangers inside their premises, even when they pose as prospective property buyers.
In a statement by the SAPS domestic workers and gardeners especially are warned against strangers and not to be fooled by people’s appearance and conduct.
According to information released by the police, robbers targeting home sellers usually work in orchestrated groups and are well-versed in glib talk and flattery.
Sellers are advised to work through a reputable realtor when intending to sell their house.
Safety tips provided by police include hiding valuable items and making sure that nobody walks through your house or yard unsupervised in order to limit the chances of opportunists committing a crime.
Do not offer any information about security measures such as alarms. It is advisable not to tell prospective buyers or tenants that there is no-one at the house during the day, because well-organised criminal groups sometimes use scouts to evaluate a property and valuable items before returning to rob or steal at a later stage.
