AfriForum claims safe suburbs are a basic right

The community’s outcry has been heard – loud and clear.

Compelled to take action, AfriForum Newcastle confirmed they would be establishing a neighbourhood watch in the coming months.

Perturbed residents approached AfriForum following a frightening increase in burglaries in particular.

“We have received queries from concerned residents about break-ins and other crime in Newcastle,” said AfriForum Provincial Coordinator, Chris Fourie. “Although there already is a neighbourhood watch as well as security companies active in the suburbs, AfriForum wants to mobilise and encourage their members to get involved.”

Are burglaries becoming a bother?

On March 3, three suspects were arrested for robbery in Alexander Biggar Avenue. The suspects apparently robbed the victim of 11 doors, five bathroom taps and other building materials at knifepoint. The items were valued at about R23 320. The suspects are between 20 and 30 years old and are expected to appear before a Newcastle court soon.

On the same day, police arrested three suspects for burglary in Greaves Street. The victim apparently heard a noise in the kitchen and upon inspection, saw the gardener fleeing the yard.

Police were contacted and managed to arrest three culprits between the ages of 30 and 40 years old. They are expected to appear before a court soon. On March 13, two suspects were arrested following a burglary in Klipspringer Avenue. The victim allegedly returned home to find the door was broken. Household goods to the value of about R43 000 were stolen. The suspects, aged 25 and 27, are expected to appear before a court soon.

On March 22, police arrested a 25-year-old man for burglary in Schonland Street. The victim returned home to find a window had been forced open. The suspect is also expected to appear before a Newcastle court soon. All four incidents are subject to police investigation.

Safe suburbs an unrealistic aspiration?

AfriForum Newcastle’s Chairman, Peet Liebenberg claimed safe suburbs are the ‘basic right of communities’.

“Where Government fails to protect communities, the public should step in and safeguard themselves.

“The AfriForum neighbourhood watch will be established to assist the police and security companies in giving additional support to keep the community safe.”

While police were commended for putting suspects behind bars, the community was sceptical whether there would actually be a noteworthy decrease in crime in the near future.

“I don’t think another neighbourhood watch is going to make much of a difference,” claimed a resident. “I firmly believe if burglars want to get in, they will.”