Stellenbosch police have issued a warning, advising locals and visitors to remain vigilant in various areas due to a noticeable increase in crime trends throughout January.
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According to police spokesperson Captain Nathalie Martin, reported incidents in January indicate a rise in property crimes, specifically theft and theft of motor vehicles belonging to specific categories, as reported by News24. There has also been an increase in reported cases of robbery.
Martin highlighted that most theft incidents occurred in Andringa, Rynevelt, and Dorp Streets, as well as Jonkershoek Road and Blumberg Drive, between 9am and 3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
She noted that one arrest has been made in connection with the reported cases.
Regarding the theft of motor vehicles, incidents were reported on Lynedoch Road, Suidwal, Bird, Andringa, and Noordwal-Oos Streets, primarily on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 9am and 12pm.
‘Three arrests on a charge of theft out of a motor vehicle have already been made. These cases mostly occurred in Andringa, Du Toit and Blom streets from Wednesday to Friday in the late afternoon, with criminals mostly breaking the side windows of vehicles to gain access.’
Martin also reported that police had successfully apprehended nine individuals in connection with robberies that occurred in various streets including Bird, Victoria, George Blake, Planken, Thubelitsha, Bassi, Makupula, and Nkanini.
Adding that these incidents occurred from Thursday to Sunday, without a specific time pattern.
Stellenbosch police are advising the community to refrain from walking with their cellphones openly visible and to avoid walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas.
Martin stressed the importance of concealing valuable items left in vehicles, as there has been an increase in thefts from parked vehicles, with laptops and other valuables left visible on seats.
If you have any information regarding these cases, please reach out to Stellenbosch police on 021 809 5000.
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