Couple tied up in bathroom during robbery

An incident in Parktown North last week where a couple was found tied up in a bathroom in a house on 11th Avenue has once again highlighted the importance of being vigilant when entering or leaving premises.

According to a statement released by ADT Security, the couple was visiting a friend when the robbery occurred.

“When the domestic worker opened the gate for the couple to come in, three male suspects followed them inside the premises in an unknown vehicle and threatened them with knives demanding jewellery and valuables before tying them up in their friend’s bathroom and leaving in the owner’s silver Mercedes Benz. Fortunately, no one was physically injured during the robbery,” read the statement.

It was further stated that the domestic worker ran to the ADT guard in her street and told him about the incident.

Security officer, Emmanuel Sithole, immediately pressed the panic button for assistance. Unfortunately, when ADT reaction officers arrived at the home, the suspects had already left the scene.

ADT Security said it was critical to be highly aware of your surroundings at all times to prevent tailgating as was the case in this particular incident. Opportunistic criminals often roam areas and look for potential weak areas where people are vulnerable.

“Entering or leaving one’s driveway can always be a potential risk,” said Helen Andrews, ADT community development manager.

Click here to read more crime news from the area.

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

• If you suspect that you are being followed, put your indicator on and slow down at least two to three houses prior to your home or premises you are visiting. If you are being followed, you will force the vehicle behind you to pass and this could cause the criminals to lose interest.
• If you need to stop in your driveway to manually open the gate, always leave the key in the ignition and the motor running unless you have a child in the car. Only then should you take the key with you as you open the gate. The key is a valuable negotiating tool – they want your car and you want your child.
• If you stay in a secure complex with security guards, do not be fooled into thinking you are safe. You can easily be followed into your complex, so always remain vigilant. Research shows that most people relax the closer they get to home and this is often when they are most vulnerable.

What are your thoughts on this incident?

Tell us by posting on our timeline, Rosebank Killarney Gazette or tweet us @RK_Gazette

Add us on Whatsapp for the latest news by adding 079 4395 345 to your contact list and just send your name to us so we can save your number. Click here to find out more about our Whatsapp policy.