Vryheid sees a 400% decrease in burglaries after SAPS partners with community
House break-ins have gone down drastically from roughly 30 cases being reported in two weeks to only six within the same amount of time
DETERMINED to fight crime as best they can, the Vryheid SAPS have teamed up with some local businesses and NGO’s to form a ‘house break-ins’ project.
The project was initiated following the rapid rise of house break-ins in town.
“We got together with local NGO’s such as Afriforum, the Neighbourhood Watch, Pro5 and LinkUp to discuss ways in which we can make Vryheid safe once more,” said the SAPS’ Captain Cheryl Venter.
Despite being relatively new, the project seems to already be working as house break-ins have gone down drastically from roughly 30 cases being reported in two weeks to only six within the same amount of time.
“I really don’t know what it is that we have done but we have done it well. The stats have gone down drastically,” said Captain Venter to members that were present at the meeting on Thursday last week.
Although the stats have gone down, Captain Venter said that she hopes the team will not let their guards down but continue to sweep Vryheid’s streets clean of crime.
ALSO READ: Two men shot dead following theft in Demoina Lane
According to Sergeant Philile Dludla, break-ins are currently high in Vryheid East and Shoba.
“Houses with an easy entrance/exit are being targeted in these areas,” she said.
The team has many plans to rid Vryheid of the rising crime and Captain Venter says that they are looking for new ways to improve their patrolling system. Community members who have suggestions are encouraged to Whatsapp them to the Vryheid Herald on 073 395 4636.
ALSO READ: AbaQulusi Mayor urges community to stand together against cable theft
