UVONGO is currently experiencing a seasonal increase in criminal activities associated with the influx of holiday visitors. According to Uvongo Community Safety Forum chairman, Ernest Booysen, the crime statistics for the first three weeks of March were good but since then housebreakings have increased dramatically.
“The block watch patrols are reporting an increase in the number of loiterers both during the day and at night. I appeal to block watch members to try and do an extra patrol duty or two during the next few days. I also ask residents who are not currently involved to join the block watches in their areas,” he said.
Another concern is the theft of copper water piping from residential properties. “The culprits don’t even bother to turn the water off. If you see water flowing from a property where no one is at home, please investigate,” said Mr Booysen.
He also alerted people about the increase in the theft of valuables at beaches while people are swimming. Teenage girls pick up bags with cell phones, cameras and wallets and casually walk away before passing them on to male ‘runners’. The girls appear to be innocent holidaymakers and the runners are well dressed males who do not attract any attention when moving around.
“Please warn all holiday makers with whom you may make contact to be extra alert while enjoying a day on the beach. Do not drop your guard. Stay alert and you will not become a victim,” advised Mr Booysen.
