Four crimes that increase over festive season

Crime spiking during the festive season is a sadly reality countrywide, and uMkhanyakude District is not spared.

In this region, crimes such as assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), armed robbery, rape, house and business burglaries, malicious damage to property, theft, and fraud surge at alarming rates, with recreational alcohol consumption and drug use contributing.

Crime concerns

uMkhanyakude District SAPS spokesperson Captain Sbusiso Mkhize said the four crime categories that record a rise during November, December and January are:

1. In contact crimes: Assault GBH has the highest rate, followed by armed robberies; sexual offences, mainly rape; and common assault.
2. Property-related crimes: House burglaries or break-ins are the most prevalent, followed by business burglaries.
3. Contact-related crimes: Malicious damage to property is the major problem.
4. Serious crimes: Theft increases significantly, followed by fraud.

“When we look at the times of the day these are committed; the manner in which they are committed; and those involved, most of the time these crimes are by-products of a fun time,” said Mkhize.

Elaborating, he said most of these crimes, notably assault GBH and common assault, are perpetrated after people have indulged in festivities and consumed alcohol, drugs, or both.

House burglaries or break-ins usually occur when homeowners leave their property unattended for a few days.

Keeping premises safe

Mkhize’s advice to business owners is to avoid keeping money on the premises and for home owners to get someone to house sit.

He also said to ensure security is tight. This includes elements like burglar guards and doors; security dogs; security companies; security cameras, alarm systems, and the latest security technology.

Caution around purchases

He said precautions must be made when ordering online, including buying off social media, and to avoid paying any money before having sight of the goods.

“In most cases, these are difficult-to-follow transactions as the fraudsters prefer being paid through eWallet, Cashsend, or Money Market over-the-counter services to avoid using bank accounts,” explained Mkhize.

Bank card cloning and internet banking crimes are also prevalent during this time.

Fighting crime together

The police urge communities to work with them in the fight against crime by reporting suspects.

“It is better to prevent crime, so the police need to be proactive and ensure communities are protected. Working together will strengthen our existing intelligence,” said Mkhize.

He said it was good to note car hijackings have dropped drastically in uMkhanyakude since the deployment of specialised SAPS task teams.

uMkhanyakude District commissioner Brigadier Mandla Mhlongo also urged residents to adhere to the law at all times; to drive safely; and to not drink and drive.

“This district is a major tourist destination and we will ensure its residents and visitors are safe,” said Mhlongo.

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