Crime is a touchy point in South Africa, as it is a constant, constant—a part of who we are. It is so prevalent in our day to day lives that police even advise wearing comfortable shoes when walking in town, in case you have to run. (Read more here – Newcastle SAPS advise “comfortable shoes”, in case you need to run?)
Not a day goes by without media houses across the board, highlighting the ever-escalating crime rate. However, is the criminal element in Northern KwaZulu-Natal becoming more unabashed in their nefarious deeds? Are offenders becoming more desperate to make quick cash?
Recently, an Utrecht business owner was targeted by three reprehensible men. Lizzy Arumugam, Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications, explains the three offenders broke into the store, gaining access through the roof. At the time, the shopkeeper and another person were fast asleep—never suspecting they would soon be confronted by the three miscreants.
Woken by the fiends, who were armed with a firearm, Arumugam explained, “They tied the victims up with sheets found inside the building and demanded cash, cellular phones and the vehicle keys.”
After looting the business, the men further grabbed some groceries from the store, before escaping in the storekeeper’s car. The vehicle was later recovered in the Osizweni area.
While the police are investigating the matter, it appears Newcastle business owners need to be observant when it comes to dealing with cash as Osizweni police arrested a man in Blaauwbosch, after receiving a tip-off that he was dealing in counterfeit cash. Upon arriving at the suspect’s home at Msomi Stand, officers confiscated R1 400 in false notes. Not a large amount of money, but this is a clear indication it is in the area.
While the suspect has since appeared in the Madadeni Magistrate Court, people are encouraged to be cautious when dealing with cash.
Taking a stance against crime can appear to be a fearful step. But remember just like you, criminals are people, made of flesh and bone. When communities or neighbourhoods decide, enough is enough—the ripple effect is immense and impressive. Also remember the adage, “Doing nothing and looking on, is just as bad as committing the crime”.
We cannot logically expect the SAPS to rid the country of crime alone.
Authors: Quinton Boucher & Calvin Swemmer
Edited: Calvin Swemmer
