Make street numbers clear, urges police
“When a house number is not visible or non-existent, it makes it almost possible to go out to a scene or give assistance when needed.”
Villieria police asked residents in the Moot to please make their house numbers more visible to help them find the houses to assist after crimes.
“When a house number is not visible or non-existent, it makes it almost possible to go out to a scene or give assistance when needed,” said police spokesperson Captain Coba Brits.
Brits said making numbers more visible was just one of the ways residents could help police.
“In the case of a break-in, whether it be at a house or business, residents should make a list of all the items stolen with their serial number or description,” she said.
“When you give through a complaint through telephone, please do it by contacting 10111.”
“By doing it this way, the complaint will be registered.
“Also, talk clearly to ensure that the information is correct.”
Brits said video footage from security cameras was also important.
“The exact time when the incident took place, which should be seen on the camera footage, could assist with the investigation,” she said.
“Any suspicious people in vehicles in the street are also very relevant.”
She said residents should always ensure their cell phone number was correct in the report.
“The reason for this is that the complainant will receive an SMS with the case number and the name of the investigation officer,” she said.
Brits said when complainants noted something new after the report, such as receiving new information about the incident, they should note it down and take it to the police station along with their case number.
“They can then file the new information in your report,” she said.
She said residents should also get the name and rank of the officer attending to the complaint to give thorough feedback, whether it be positive or negative.
Brits said another way residents could assist the police was by making sure property was properly secured.
She offered a couple of safety hints to assist residents:
– A wall around a property is not a good idea. It hides the view from the street and gives criminals the chance to break in unseen. A metal security fence with remote-controlled gates and an intercom is a good choice.
– Join the neighbourhood watch.
– Dense trees and shrubs in the garden or on the pavement offer hiding places to criminals.
– Do not leave ladders and other tools lying around in the property.
– Make sure the property is well-lit.
– Secure all windows with burglar bars.
– Make sure that all outside doors are fitted with security gates.
– Make sure sliding doors cannot be lifted from the rails.
– Invest in a good alarm system.
Brits urged residents to report all crimes, no matter how big or small.
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