Security forum warns of rise in east house burglaries
Residents are urged to be active and act as their neighbours' keepers to report any suspicious activity.
According to the third quarter Crime Statistics, many policing precincts in the east of Pretoria recorded an increase in burglaries at residential premises.
The stats revealed that in the Silverton policing precinct, robberies at residential premises increased by 12 counts to 25 cases compared to the 13 of the same period last year, while burglaries at residential premises stood at 71 reported cases.
Burglaries at residential premises in the Garsfontein policing precinct increased by 3% to 102 cases.
A string of house break-ins were also reported last week on Rossouw Street and the eastern end of Oulandsloop Street in Die Wilgers.
East residents are urged to be vigilant as house burglaries surge in these suburbs.
Aris Ruyter from Alpha Security Forum said they have noted a concerning house burglary trend emerging across suburbs in the east of Pretoria happening within minutes of residents leaving their homes.
Ruyter said in many cases, break-ins occur just 10 to 30 minutes after the homeowner departs, yet no one recalls seeing any suspicious activity beforehand.
“It rises an alarming possibility, that criminals may be watching without being noticed.”
Ruyter urged all community members to be vigilant and proactive, now more than ever.
“Connecting with security companies and, just as importantly, getting to know your neighbours can make all the difference. A strong community network means that if someone spots a suspicious person or vehicle near a neighbour’s property, they can alert them immediately.”
He said delayed reporting of suspicious activity is dangerous.
“One of the biggest challenges in crime prevention is how information spreads. Too often, incidents are first shared in small street groups, then passed from one group to another, creating delays.”
He said in reality, every second counts.
“A burglary can take as little as 78 seconds – barely enough time to call for help. Instead of relying on social media chains, residents should report incidents directly to security groups, CPFs, and SAPS to ensure the fastest possible response.”
Ruyter said residents must take action and strengthen their home security.
He said that while community cooperation is key, homeowners must also take steps to secure their properties.
Residents are advised to follow these steps:
– Check your gate’s anti-lift system. A gate should not have more than 1 mm tolerance to prevent criminals from lifting it off its track.
– Secure your gate motor. A simple metal cover plate can prevent criminals from bending the gate rack and forcing it off the motor’s gear.
– Consider an alarm-triggered gate sensor. This ensures an alert is sent if the gate is left open.
Ruyter said gated complexes face their own challenges.
“Many residents feel a false sense of security, assuming that because they live within a community, they are safe. However, security must be a shared responsibility. Neighbours should actively communicate and collaborate to improve their collective safety.”
According to Ruyter too often, people assume that crime will never reach them – until it does.
“A community that prioritises security is a safer neighbourhood. The solution is simple, look out for each other. Be aware of what’s happening around you. Get involved,” he explained.
Ruyter said crime is becoming faster and more sophisticated.
“To fight back, communities need to do the same. From sharing camera footage and monitoring suspicious activity to patrolling and reporting incidents promptly, every effort counts. SAPS and private security providers are there to assist and train those willing to step up.”
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