Homeowners beware – It’s a criminal’s market

VRYHEID Neighbourhood Watch recently warned of a startling new criminal trend which is rumoured to have hit several areas surrounding Vryheid.

According to a recent report, homeowners in the process of selling their houses have now become the target for thieves masquerading as potential buyers. It is believed that the perpetrators request that any dogs which may be guarding the premises be locked away to enable them to “have a look” at the property, following which they allegedly proceed to tie up and assault their victims, before robbing them of their household possessions, in some cases, even stealing their vehicles.

Homeowners should take the necessary precautions to safeguard their property, especially when in the process of selling their houses. Instruct your domestic worker not to allow anyone on the premises without prior arrangement. Ensure that all family members and workers have the Neighbourhood Watch emergency number on their cellphones, should their assistance be required.

Contact Vryheid Neighbourhood Watch in the case of an emergency on their emergency number at 087 808 3508.

If you would like to know how you can help, or if you’d like to pledge your support to this increasingly necessary local organisation, visit them at their new premises at 147 President Street between 10:00am and 2:00pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.

Neighbourhood Watch reminds the public of the Osbraai fundraising event, which will take place on November 7 from 3:00pm at Vryheid Ski Boat Club. A limited number of tickets are still available. A portion of the proceeds will go to CANSA. With live entertainment by Ian Bland and Graham Boyle, as well as a presentation about cancer by cancer survivor, Lorraine Black, this is an event not to be missed.

Contact Adriaan Botha on 083 539 2645 for further details.