According to a situational analysis it is revealed that most of the incidents are happening in Fichardt Park, Willows, Brandwag and Universitas. It has also been noted that an absence of vigilance exists with regard to the criminal element that lies in wait.

As a result, Parkweg Police would like to issue warnings to the residents to be extra careful of people pretending to be Centlec employees. The police have also discovered a new trend and tactic that gives the thieves the opportunity to rob unsuspecting people.

The modus operandi of those criminals is that they have the tendency to observe people’s daily routine. As soon as you are out of sight as the owner of the house, they then target the house whereby they know only the workers are there alone. They will knock on the door, wearing black with electric equipment and inform your workers that Centlec sent them to fix the meter box and bulbs. They are driving a purple Uno with an unknown registration. As soon as they get entry to the house they steal laptops, cell phones and valuable jewelry.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) want to create public awareness so that people can be vigilant and alert at all times.  Be vigilant of people loitering around your house and make your family and employees aware of this tendency. Do not allow anyone inside your premises without proof of appointment.

If you do have someone who will visit your premises for repairs and deliveries; inform your house- or garden worker in advance so that they are aware that they should only allow companies by appointment to the premises.

Report suspects that approach your employees with requests to access the premises under false pretenses to your nearest police station at 051 507 6003.  Anyone has the right to call Centlec call center on 051 409 2201 and speak to a consultant who will assist you to determine any Centlec activity in your area.

At this stage we have increased police visibility at all identified hotspots but the SAPS are still appealing to the public to start doing their part by protecting themselves and their properties.

These types of thefts are regarded as opportunistic crime and to avoid them, the public is advised to be street wise and consider taking safety measures that must be adhered to at all times.

Statement issued

OFM News