Ladysmith police would like to send out a word of warning to the community concerning robberies and housebreakings at businesses and homes. An increase in these crimes often occurs during the festive season.
The community is advised to exercise the following preventative measures:
- Avoid taking or keeping large sums of money in your homes – criminals generally study each and every move of their targets and know their pattern of movement, so be vigilant at all times.
- If you need to move large amounts of cash, engage the services of a cash-in-transit company.
- Avoid keeping large amounts of valuable jewellery (even in your home safe) and more especially if you are a collector, ensure that your valuables are kept in a safety deposit box at a reputable bank.
- Invest in security cameras, an alarm system or even a panic alarm – it is an effective deterrent.
- Be attentive when you are travelling to ensure that you are not being followed.
- Immediately report any suspicious persons/vehicles in the vicinity of your neighborhood or residence to the police.
- If you are confronted by a criminal, do not try to protect your valuables; at the end of the day, your life is most important.
- If you are planning on being away from home this festive season, get someone to stay in your home or have a neighbour visit your home every day.
- You can also make use of the SAPS Vacant House Register. Visit your nearest police station to complete the necessary documentation.
These are cautionary measures issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the interests of your safety.
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