TRICHARDT – During the past few months, a crime wave has hit the town.
Several houses and businesses were burglarised.
Residents were tied up in their homes and robbed at gun point.
Cars have been stolen, found and stolen again.
Most of these burglaries took place during the day between 9am and 12am.
Mr Clark van der Walt, chairman of Trichardt Community Police Forum, said currently they are having a crime wave in their town, that is affecting everyone.
“I would like everyone to make sure that they, and their loved ones are safe by keeping all doors locked, gates closed and windows closed. Gates that can be locked should be locked, even during the day. Get to know your next door neighbour and begin to look out for one another,” he added.
He advised the community, to not be afraid to report suspicious persons or activity to the police.
“Make sure that you get some sort of reference and give the correct information to them.
“Always think of your fellow members and look out for one another. This high crime situation in our town can be overcome by beginning to take hands with the police and everyone in our town. Together we are going to win.”
Mr Andries Lee from Roman Alarms and tactical support unit gave some helpful safety tips.
For your own safety:
– If you have an alarm system, make sure you switch it on while sleeping and when you leave your house.
– It is a good idea to get beams as well, especially when you braai or are outside. Beams can trigger the alarm when a suspect enters your yard.
– Do not take the same route home everyday. Criminals watch you and want to figure out your daily routine, so that they can know when to either ambush you or burgle your house.
– Do not go to the same petrol station every time. Many people have been gunned down at a petrol station because the criminals know they use that specific one.
– Do not leave gates open when you have visitors.
– Close your curtains at night. It is much easier to see what is going on in a house when it is dark.
– Please do not put your physical address on any Zello channel or WhatsApp groups. It makes you an easy target.
– Do not post pictures on or check in on Facebook or public groups while away for the weekend or on holiday. It makes it easy for criminals to see that no one is home.
Criminals will watch your every move and yes, they will even check Facebook profiles to select a target.
