Security company worried over crime rise in Pta east suburbs

A local security company has expressed concern over a spike in crime in the east of Pretoria.

According to Fidelity ADT, over the last week of January, there had been mounting reports of burglaries and theft out of motor vehicles in the Pretoria east area.

Regional manager Leon Muller for Fidelity ADT listed the following areas as being riddled with crime:

– Die Wilgers,

– Faerie Glen

– Garsfontein

– Lynnwood Ridge

– Lynnwood Manor

– Moreletapark

The main areas affected in Pretoria east are:

– Moreletapark (mainly evening crime from 20:00 till 04:00)

– Garsfontein (from 08:00 and then again from 20:00)

– Lynnwood Manor (from 16:00-20:00)

He said Mondays and Fridays appeared to be when the majority of incidents were taking place.

“Within the Fidelity ADT footprint between January 23 and 29, the most prevalent crimes were house break-ins followed by motor vehicle-related crimes.

“In the latter category, theft out of motor vehicle and goods were stolen from the back of trucks was the highest followed by theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles.”

Muller said he believed the crime in the area was opportunistic.

He urged residents to look for ways to build perimeters so they were more secure.

“Criminals are taking advantage.

“The suspects are quick getting in and out within minutes. If they can’t get into your house or business, they take what they can from your property or your parked cars.”

Muller said those with security gadgets are urged to ensure that their tools, such as alarms were in working order.

“Please also be alert when driving in the area and if you believe you are being followed don’t turn into your driveway. Rather drive to your nearest police station, security boom or a place with activity.

“Remember to only open your gate when you are sure it is safe to do so and close it immediately after you have entered,” said Muller.

He offered the following safety tips:

– Ensure that perimeter doors are fitted with adequate locks.

– Fit suitable “spacers”, locks or bolts to all sliding doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks (the most common method used by burglars on sliding doors and windows).

– Ensure all windows are fitted with adequate locks or burglar bars that cover all glass.

– Ensure that all duplicate keys are locked away if not in use. Do not leave keys in doors or make unnecessary copies.

– Keep the garage and toolshed locked when not in use. Would-be intruders should not have access to any item that can be used as a weapon or burglary tool.

– Install outside lights that can be remotely controlled from inside the house. Consider installing lighting outside which is activated by a motion detector.

– Reduce all heavy foliage near your perimeter wall and gate to reduce the possibility of those spots being used as hiding places.

For theft out of motor vehicle and theft of vehicles:

– Always be aware of your surroundings – this applies to any public parking areas or even if you park on the road outside a property.

– Report any suspicious activity.

– Do not leave valuables in an unattended vehicle. If you have to, ensure they are in the boot.

– Never push the remote locking device whilst walking away from the vehicle.

– Check that the vehicle is locked by testing the door.

– Ensure the boot is locked.

– Avoid shopping late at night.

Police in the area were yet to provide comment by our time of publication.

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