House robbery incidents have become a concern for the management of Thabong South African Police Services (SAPS).
In most of the cases reported, suspects are three to five unknown men wearing balaclavas and they are armed with firearms or sharp instruments. According to a police statement, most robberies are reported from Friday night to the early hours of Monday morning, though some are reported during the week on random days.
Spokesperson Mamello Mokhuoane says Thabong police are working round the clock to arrest some of the suspects involved in the cases through tracing operation, station and cluster operations.
“Sector Commander and Community Policing Forum hold regular meetings with the community to create awareness about house robberies and different crimes that affect the different sectors. Thabong police appeal to the community to attend the meetings and join CPF structures such as community patrollers and neighbourhood watch.”
Thabong SAPS Station Commander, Brigadier Nikiwe Hoaeane, is also making a plea to the community of Thabong to be vigilant in their neighbourhoods and report any suspicious criminal activities that may occur.
“We are aware that there are firearms circulating in Thabong as well as knives. We request our community members to report any person seen walking around wielding these dangerous weapons and firearms to furnish us with that information so that we can deal with them accordingly,” says Hoaeane.
Some crime hints that will assist in the prevention of house robberies and theft:
- Know your neighbours and build a relationship of mutual trust and support. When going away inform them.
- It is always best to arrange with persons living in the same street as you to be ready at all times to come to the rescue of one another in dangerous or suspicious times.
- Exchange phone numbers or signaling methods when you find yourself in distress. Your strength always lies in how many people are able to support you in an emergency.
- Keep cash and valuables at the bank in safes
- Do not leave your keys in a hidden place for domestic staff or children.
- Always keep your keys safe to prevent duplication thereof.
- Know your emergency numbers
- If possible ensure that your house has maximum security eg. burglar guards, alarm system
Emergency numbers that you can use:
- SAPS crime stop number 08600 10111
- Thabong SAPS 057 910 2300/97/98
- Or report at your nearest police station for assistance.
Statement Issued by the Thabong SAPS Communication, Marketing and Liaison
