The residents of Phoenix have been urged to become actively involved in reducing crime in the area by joining the Community Policing Forum.
This follows a sharp rise in home invasions in the area, which have become a cause for concern. In the latest incident, theft suspect was successfully apprehended after members of the community alerted KZN VIP to a house robbery in progress at a home in Bluefern on Sunday, 21 August.
KZN VIP spokesperson, Gareth Naidoo, said their officers arrived at Bluefern home while the suspect was still inside the yard.
“KZN VIP apprehended the suspect who had multiple stolen items and dangerous weapons in his possession. All the stolen items from the property were recovered by members of KZN VIP,” said Naidoo.
He said the suspect was handed over to the police for detention. Meanwhile Phoenix SAPS and Community Police Forum members have appealed for homeowners to be alert following the increase of house robberies and copper theft in the area.
Phoenix SAPS communication officer, Captain Louise Naidoo, said they are appealing to homeowners to opt for plastic pipes over copper pipes, following the recent increase in copper pipe theft cases that has brought about much concern.
She said: “An appeal is being made to homeowners, provided you can afford to, to try and change the copper pipes for plastic. This will help to decrease the number of theft cases. Homeowners are urged to lock their property, as many homeowners leave their property and do not lock their premises properly, as bathroom and bedroom windows are left open and houses do not have not burglar bars.”
Cpt Naidoo added that homeowners should refrain from keeping their house keys in ‘special hiding spots.
“These are some of the reasons why people’s homes get broken into and everything that they’ve worked hard for gets stolen. Make sure your property is properly locked, all doors and windows and invest in a dog to guard your property. Have your property guarded by a security company who will monitor your property on a 24 hour basis. Inform your security company when you are going away on holiday so that they can patrol around your property regularly,” added Capt. Naidoo.
Phoenix Community Police Forum chairperson, Dinesh Pillay urged all residents of Phoenix to join the CPF. He said residents can start being proactive by starting their own street committee.
“They can contact us in and we can help set them up. They are also advised to create a street WhatsApp group, take part in your Sector CPF Forums and meetings, meet your SAPS Sector Commander Representatives, as well as meet and greet your neighbours,” said Pillay.
He said that by following the steps provided, residents can secure their neighbourhoods.
“The only way to secure Phoenix is to do it one street at a time, therefore we humbly request residents to concentrate on their streets. Phoenix CPF is always willing to work with all and more than a pleasure to assist wherever we can,” said Pillay.
For more information on how to start your Street Committee, contact Phoenix CPF PRO, Mark Nadasen on 062 321 7730.
