Police recently warned residents to be vigilant following a recent surge in house robberies in Kilnerpark.
Police spokesperson Coba Brits also urged residents not to disturb any crime scene before investigators arrive.
“It is vital that everything is left as is, as it may contain evidence important to the investigation,” she said.
“We understand this is very difficult, but we ask for residents’ understanding.”
Brits also offered some advice to residents on how to keep safe.
“Keep security gates locked at all times; put panic buttons in place and know where they are,” she said.
“Know your neighbours and their movements, so that any irregularities can be identified and reported.”
Brits said residents should not leave vehicles idling in driveways.
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When entering a premises, residents must be observant and ensure that all gates are closed behind them.
“Do not enter any premises if you see anything suspicious,” she said.
Brits said residents must report any suspicious people to the police.
“Residents must put their own safety first at all times and take care when confronting any criminals,” she said.
When reporting a crime, residents should try and have clear information on the suspects to help police in their investigation.
The following observation techniques can be used:
– Do not make it obvious that you are observing the suspects
– How many intruders were there?
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– Focus on one person at a time
– Gain an overall impression of height; build; firearm or other weapons; clothing and special features (a limp, deformities, birthmarks, etc.)
Brits said residents should focus on:
– Facial features
– Remember any names used by suspects when talking to each other
– Remember what they touched; where they walked; any cigarette butts discarded; urinated, etc.
Brits said the same rules applied to vehicles:
– First look at the make and model of the vehicle.
– Colour
– Noticeable features
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– Registration number
“Always get an overall impression first and then the details,” she said.
Brits said the investigating officer should be contacted for any additional information on house robberies.
The police also urged residents to report any dagga plants if found.
This follows after a big dagga plant was found growing on an empty property in Queenswood.
“Residents should contact the police if plants like these are identified in properties,” she said.
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