Atlantic Seaboard residents have been warned to be on alert following recent burglaries targeting expensive jewellery, with a male pensioner identified as the prime suspect.
As per the Cape Argus, the suspect, a man believed to be in his 60s, was last seen near the Oliver Court residential complex in Sea Point, and his image has circulated on social media since Monday.
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A resident of Oliver Court recounted the intruder’s strategy, stating that on 30 December he gained entry by tailing a resident.
He said that the suspect surveys the complex by ringing doorbells and noting unresponsive units to ascertain which residents are away. He then takes advantage of the absence, breaking into specific apartments.
Police spokesperson Nowonga Sukwana confirmed two reported thefts involving high-value jewellery, amounting to losses of R800 000 and R465 000, respectively.
Despite ongoing investigations, no arrests have been made.
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Jacques Weber, the director of Watch Tower Group and the chairperson of Sea Point’s Community Improvement District, noted similarities between these incidents and a case from a year ago.
‘About a year ago, we had a similar case but in those burglaries, the suspect rang bells at various complexes and claimed to be working for the City of Cape Town to gain access,’ he said. ‘He was detained at the time but we are unsure of what has happened with the case. In this case, we can confirm that the suspect is on foot and usually boards a taxi or other public transport to leave the area.’
Weber advised residents to remain vigilant about unauthorised entry into their complexes. He suggested forming WhatsApp groups for quick communication and increased awareness.
Anyone with information about these burglaries should contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
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Picture: Karabo Mdluli / Unsplash