Eight break-ins in two months: Local charity crippled by crime
A local charity that supports vulnerable children and the elderly is facing mounting financial strain after being repeatedly targeted by criminals, despite increased security measures.
The local community organisation Save a Child is back in the spotlight, but this time for the wrong reasons, after criminals targeted them in a break-in that caused significant damage to their property.
In July last year, the organisation suffered a costly break-in that caused extensive damage to the premises. Now, just a year later, they have endured eight break-ins in the past two months alone. Despite implementing security measures, the crime has only escalated.
According to the chairman of the organisation, Boet Jonker, the total cost of the damages exceeds R90 000.
”They stole several items over the past two months, items needed for their work such as vinyl plates, laptops, cellphones, and other electronic equipment. The organisation primarily serves vulnerable young schoolchildren and the elderly.”
Boet confirmed to the News that they have opened numerous cases and reported the incidents, however, the police have yet to assist them effectively.
The organisation’s manager, Debra de Bruyn, also expressed her frustration at the police’s lack of urgency.
”The police are yet to make any arrests and they never seemed to show any sense of urgency to assist us despite our reports and the CCTV footage that we provided.”
The organisation mainly relies on government subsidies and donations and claims to spend over R1 million annually on products and supplies for its initiatives. The damage to their premises is costly, despite efforts such as installing barbed wire and electrical cables.
“It’s very frustrating,” Boet said.
He claims further that, “Over the past year, we have implemented as many security measures as possible, however, it does not seem to help. When we request police assistance, we are often met with disrespect and are never helped.”
The News approached Krugersdorp Police station commander Brigadier Xaba for comment, however, no response was given at the time of publication. Their feedback will be published once received.
