Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Vigilance and neighbourly consciousness are being encouraged—this follows a surge of robberies noted in the Northern KwaZulu-Natal area, with criminals aggressively targeting business owners and homeowners alike.
SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer, Lizzy Arumugam, points out three robberies took place over two days—with all three incidents noting the perpetrators using excessive force in order to gain entrance.
Looking at the first incident, “Dannhauser Police are investigating a case of business robbery which took place between 7 January 2021 and 8 January 2021 at a tuck shop, situated at Nyembe Stand, Annieville,” says Arumugam.
According to the victim, he was sleeping inside the shop when a banging noise from the back door woke him up.
Before realising what was happening, four men stormed into the property, three of whom had firearms in their possession. One of the suspects used his firearm to force the shopkeeper to lay on the ground. The criminals then assaulted the man with an iron rod, demanding to know where the money was.
The victim finally relented, and the men escaped with R1 500 cash, cigarettes and All Star shoes.
The second incident sees Osizweni police investigating a business robbery at Charles Enterprises, Jakkalspan on 8 January 2021.
Arumugam expounds, “The complainant alleges that he was about to close his shop when three men came and pushed him inside his shop. One threatened him with a knife, while two took R6 000 cash and R5 000 worth of airtime.” Fortunately, no one was injured.
Lastly, the Newcastle Police are currently investigating a robbery case which took place during broad daylight on 6 January 2021 in Lennoxton.
The victim stated she was working at home when she decided to take the dust bin to the gate. While doing this, she was approached by two unknown men. Armed with a knife, the men forced her back into her home, where they proceeded to take cash, cellphones and jewellery, before making their escape—luckily, the victim managed to avoid serious injury.
It is crucial to pay attention to your surroundings and keep your doors locked. Do not grant anyone access to your property unless you are expecting them.
Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
