Crime rampant in the north
“The trailer was chained to the gate next to our bedroom window, but we still didn’t wake when the thieves cut the chains and pushed the trailer out of the yard.”
Police this week said that residents in the north of Pretoria should lay formal complaints at police stations, instead of just talking about it on social media.
This follows a sharp increase in reports of crime on social media.
“It is not enough to just report crimes on social media,” said Akasia police spokesperson Sergeant Matsobane Mabusela.
“A formal complaint with the police was needed to prevent crimes in the future.
“Crime is crime. Whether it is a hosepipe or phone that is stolen, people must report it to the police.”
“We will then be able to launch a formal investigation and find out where our forces are needed to catch the criminals and safeguard our community.”
On Wednesday, an Orchards resident reported being robbed at gunpoint.
The message about the alleged robbery was shared on social media, but could not immediately be confirmed with police.
Earlier in the morning, another complaint of theft in Karenpark was made.
READ MORE: Solomon Mahlangu’s family wants his case reopened
Refilwe Mngomezulu said a trailer was stolen from her property during the night or early morning.
Mngomezulu said she was woken up by a neighbour at around 03:30 and told that her gate was wide open.
“I do believe we were drugged (during the theft), because we have two dogs that bark when the gate opens – and we didn’t wake up until our neighbour called,” said Mngomezulu.
“The trailer was chained on the gate inside the yard, right next to our bedroom window. The thieves had time to cut the chains and push the trailer out onto the street.”
Mngomezulu said this was the second break-in at her house. In 2017, she said, thieves stole gas stoves, catering pots and a mountain bike from her property.
“The world we live in is definitely something else. The thought that people got onto our premises without us even hearing a thing, just leaves me numb.”
Community watch groups were on the lookout for the missing trailer.
Mabusela said crimes can be reported at any time at the nearest police stations.
“Even if it is a week after the crime has happened, people can still report it. But we urge people to lay a complaint as soon as possible for police to start an investigation.”
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
