Local authorities and private security firms report criminals targeting homes in several suburbs. This has sparked concern among residents and CPFs.

This publication recently reported on two separate burglaries in which residents’ valuables were stolen.

During a burglary in Edelweiss on January 7, burglars fled the scene after forcing entry into the property.

Dorette van Zyl from ProSafe said their control room received an alarm signal from the residence and immediately called the homeowner to verify the property’s status.

“The client indicated she would immediately check the live camera footage on her phone and respond,” Van Zyl explained.

Moments later, the homeowner called back, confirming that intruders were visible inside the house on the live camera feed. ProSafe immediately dispatched reaction units.

“On arrival, the suspects had already fled in a silver vehicle,” she said, adding that inspecting the property revealed they had gained entry by force.

“They caused significant damage to the front gate and security gate before forcing open the door,” Van Zyl concluded.

In another incident, Pollak Park resident Adriaan Burger’s flat was broken into on December 19. Several items were stolen, including two cameras, an external hard drive, and a vehicle headlight and battery. No arrests have been made.

Springs SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Charity Zwane said they had noticed an increase in reported burglaries compared to the same period last year. She added that all sectors are affected, with the most impacted being Modder East, Dersley Park, and Selcourt.

Zwane said a contributing factor is that many left their homes unattended during the festive season, which criminals took advantage of.

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“Police resources have been redirected to the affected areas, and more vehicle checkpoints have been implemented in the identified hotspots,” she said.

She urged the community to strengthen security at their homes by reinforcing entry points, fitting proper security locks and burglar bars, and ensuring adequate lighting around the premises.

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“Residents are encouraged to install CCTV cameras and alarm systems, keep dogs when possible, and install anti-lift brackets on sliding gates. It is also important to vet domestic workers and gardeners by checking references and keeping copies of their IDs,” Zwane said.