Crime spikes in Centurion

It has been a busy month for responders in Centurion as various incidents of vehicle theft, trespassing and petty crime were reported in the area.

Monitor Net spokesperson JP le Roux said robberies of courier companies have also been on the rise the past month as lockdown regulations were relaxed.

“Other crimes noted during this time include motor vehicle thefts and an increase in wall jumpers and house robberies and break-ins, especially during the early hours of the morning.”

ALSO READ: Police ministry records increase in crime during lockdown level 4

Le Roux said there were also street robberies in which suspects would stop next to the victim and rob them of their cellphones before driving off.

“They are either armed with a firearm or knife,” Le Roux explained.

He warned the community to be vigilant and not to let strangers enter their properties. Lyttelton police spokesperson Captain Dave Miller said they have also noted an increase in certain crime categories since the relaxation of the lockdown.

Most thefts of motor vehicles, as well as thefts out of motor vehicles, were around shopping centres. Miller said police were working closely with all the role players to ensure that ‘we curb and reduce the current number of cases being reported’.

“We remind our community that drinking and driving should be avoided at all times,” he warned.

This as there has been an increase in vehicle collisions in which alcohol was a contributing factor. Miller further said the management and officers of the Lyttelton police station were fully committed to keeping streets free of crime.

ALSO READ: Curfew blamed for spike in north crime

According to Ruan Heyns, of Cert-SA, the number of road accidents has also increased. Accidents reported, included pedestrians accidents, single accidents and collisions. Heyns confirmed more alcohol-related accidents have been reported during this time. Other incidents on the rise included stabbings and shootings.

“Another spike includes house fires due to chilly winter temperatures,” he concluded.