Bike theft on the rise in the east
“Most bicycles were stolen during burglaries in Waterkloof Ridge, Waterkloof, Menlo Park and the surrounding suburbs of Hazelwood.”
Brooklyn police are investigating a number of bicycle theft cases.
Spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said cyclists could assist the police to reduce these crimes by putting additional safety measures in place to prevent theft.
She said bicycles are not only stolen from pavements or shopping centres but also during burglaries.
“There is an increase in reports whereby criminals broke into houses as well as garages. From time to time only the garages are broken into to steal bicycles and other items.”
“Criminals often find easier access to garages and outside buildings in comparison to the main house.
She said this is every so often as a result of the lack of proper security measures at these buildings.
“Most bicycles that were stolen during burglaries occurred at Waterkloof Ridge, Waterkloof, Menlo Park and the surrounding suburbs of Hazelwood.”
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“These burglaries typically occurred during the early morning hours or after 22:00.”
Weilbach said most of the reports emanated from Hatfield, Brooklyn and Hillcrest.
The following safety advice is given to protect bicycles from theft:
– A good lock does not always give a guarantee that a bicycle will not be stolen, but it will definitely make it more difficult and time-consuming for thieves. U-locks and heavy-duty chains offer better bicycle protection.
– Where possible use two different locks. Secure the back part of the frame and the wheel with one and the front wheel with the other. Thieves will need different tools for different types of locks and chains.
– Park bicycles in a well-exposed place, where passers-by can easily see it. Choose parking areas where there is ample lightning and CCTV cameras.
– Consider engraving a personal code on the bicycle which can be given to the police when a case is reported. Take photos of the bicycle, record the serial number. Sometimes suspected stolen bicycles are found and this will enable the police to return the bicycle to its rightful owner.
– Residents are advised to enhance security at garages and outside buildings to deter would-be burglars.
– Always keep garages and outside buildings locked up. Do not leave a garage open for the whole day so that passersby can observe the contents thereof.
– Fit strong padlocks to outbuilding doors and install burglar proof bars at windows.
– Good external security lighting that comes on when sensing movement can put off or draw attention to a thief.
– Link the alarm of the main house to outside buildings and garages.
– Always lock bicycles to immovable objects, even if it is parked inside a garage.
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Anyone with information on crime can contact the Brooklyn police station on 012-366-1742, or Crime Stop on 08600-10111 or SMS Crime Line on 32211 to report crime anonymously.
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