According to the first quarter of SAPS Crime Statistics, crime has not subsided during the pandemic and the subsequent lockdown. This is despite the strict regulations and restriction on movement during the curfew hours.
While the Amajuba area thankfully does not hold crime figures like those found in larger cities, one cannot ignore the reality that crime is a major threat as poverty and unemployment skyrockets.
Sadly, there are many crimes which go unreported due to a variety of reasons. Ranging from people either taking the law into their own hands or people simply just not having faith in the SAPS, thus seeing no need in even reporting the matter.
Looking a closer look at some of the stats for the Amajuba district: From April to June, Newcastle saw 11 common robbery cases and 12 cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances. During the same period, Madadeni saw 11 common robbery cases and 12 cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances. In Osizweni, a total of 57 cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances were reported, with a further 14 cases of robbery.
While encouraging people to not turn a blind eye, but rather to report crime, the Newcastle SAPS Communications Department is now extending tips to Newcastillians to help protect themselves from crime.
When walking in town or to work, there are steps to minimise the chances of you being attacked by an unscrupulous assailant.
- Avoid walking alone. Rather walk in groups with co-workers and friends,
- Dress appropriately, opting to wear comfortable shoes in which you can run if the need arises.
- Avoid displaying your valuables.
- Be observant and know what is going on in your immediate surroundings.
- Avoid shortcuts through alleys and wooded areas.
- Have your cellphone available and at the ready, reporting any suspicious activity to the police.
- If you suspect you are being followed by someone on foot, immediately cross the road and proceed to a location where there are likely to be people. For example, walk into a nearby business or shop.
After reading these tips, it becomes apparent that crime is far worse than what appears on the stats. With the police recommending residents wear comfortable shoes, just in case they have to run. Leaves us wondering, just how bad is crime in the Amajuba District?
According to the crime stats, burglaries and robberies at residential premises have dropped. However, upon review of the stats, are clearly still a large concern.
Osizweni has seen 164 burglaries at residential premises being reported to the SAPS, as well as an additional 11 cases of robbery at residential premises.
In Madadeni, there were 140 reported burglaries during the April to June period. A further six cases of robbery at residential premises were also reported.
Newcastle sported 134 burglaries at residential premises and three robberies at residential premises during the same period.
With burglaries being an issue, the SAPS Newcastle Communications Department highlights there are steps to follow when at home or when leaving your home unattended.
- Ensure all your house’s doors and windows are closed and locked.
- When leaving your place of residence, inform your family or neighbours of your intended destination, the time you are expected to return and the route you will be taking.
- Ensure all tools which can be used in an attack, such as axes, spades, picks and ladders, are locked away when not using them.
- It is also important to change your daily routine on a regular basis.
- Layout your bedroom so that you are not visible from the outside; when going to sleep.
- Employees at home should be treated like family and be involved in maintaining security. However, it is also important to take photographs of your employees and have their necessary details. Also, obtain copies of their Identity Documents. This will assist if you are required to identify them.
Shinning a small ray of positivity on the topic of local crime: The Osizweni Police joined forces with the Newcastle Cluster Task Team and Osizweni Reservists and successfully arrested five drugs dealers, while confiscating mandrax with an estimated street value of R15 000. A minor win, but a win never the less.
As Newcastillians, who are dealing with the very real problem of crime on a daily basis, what steps do you feel the SAPS should be taking to help safeguard the community? Share your thoughts and opinions with us in the comment section below.
Author: Quinton Boucher
Edited: Calvin Swemmer
One Response
Action needs to be taken to remove the beggars at the intersections. They pose a direct danger to motorists and are an indication of a town sliding into becoming a crime hotspot as has taken place in the cities. Start by charging them with jaywalking.