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According to police, Newcastle’s latest crime trends reveal that homeowners are being targeted, with dozens of gate motors stolen from residential properties of late.
SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer Lizzy Arumugam explains, with the dramatic spike in the crime, Newcastle police have identified hotspots in town where the issue is especially prevalent.
These areas are:
- Aviary Hills
- Pioneer Park
- Barry Hertzog Park
- Amajuba Park
- Sunnyridge
- Amiel Park
- Hutten Heights
Perpetrators allegedly carry out this crime between 2 am, and 5 am when homeowners are sleeping. Arumugam highlights, “Stolen gate motors are either stripped down, and their various components are sold individually, or the motors are sold as complete units.” To curb the escalating crime, she explains police officials are now conducting stop and search operations and are increasing vehicle and foot patrols in an attempt to catch culprits red-handed with the stolen property.
Furthermore, Arumugam points out by adhering to the following steps, you can minimise the threat:
- Ensure your gate motor is secured in a steel casing or bracket that is not easily accessible from the outside. Also, ensure the casing or bracket is always locked.
- Use a quality lock to secure the motor’s theft-resistant cage. Preferably opt for an insurance-rated padlock.
- Install adequate anti-lift brackets or weld a piece of flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards.
- When purchasing a gate motor, it is crucial for residents to keep records of the serial number and purchase receipt. Also, mark your gate motor or engrave your name on it.
With the above in mind, what are your thoughts on the matter?
Share your views in the comment section below.
Comments 2
We in Arborpark is a hotapot for ia lot of TV stolen
Even church gate moters were ripped from its foundation with approved steel brackets and padlocks.