A crafty criminal preying on the elderly and vulnerable is wanted in connection with a number of house break-ins and house robberies in Franskraal and De Kelders in Gansbaai.
The suspect, said Sergeant Abigail Naidoo, spokesperson for the Overberg District Police Cluster, reportedly wears dark or black clothes and a balaclava concealing his face.
“The person is believed to be involved in a number of house break-ins, aside from two cases of house robbery and attacks, mainly in Franskraal and De Kelders,” she said.
The suspect is described as a man of small build and dark of complexion. Reports on social media indicate the suspect may be armed with a taser.
“His victims are mostly the elderly and women who live alone. It is reported that he lures his victims outside under false pretences or gains entry through windows that have been left unlatched.
“So far no injuries in connection with the break-ins have been reported, but it is very important that this criminal is apprehended as soon as possible.”
The police have cautioned residents especially to be on the look-out for any suspicious-looking people loitering in their area, for it is suspected the criminal does surveillance of the area during the day.
“When you hear any suspicious sounds outside your house please do not go outside to investigate, especially if you are alone,” Naidoo cautioned. “Instead, contact the police, your local neighbourhood watch or security company.”
The police have also provided the following safety tips:. A high fence with lockable gates is much safer than a high wall as it provides better visibility;. Ensure that your doors and gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be reached easily. Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door as well as burglar bars in front of all windows are recommended;. Peepholes in the door and safety chains on the door provide an extra safety measure;. Ensure all doors are locked and the windows closed securely when you aren’t at home;. If you leave your residence inform your neighbours or family how long you are expected to be away and when you will return;. Ensure that axes, ladders, spades and any other equipment that can be used to gain entry to your property or during an attack, are locked away;. Do not allow strangers onto your property or inside your home without properly identifying the person;. Inform your children to never indicate that there is no available adult supervision when they answer the door or telephone;. Identify relatively safe spaces for refuge in the event of an attack, for example a bathroom or storeroom;. Clear the area around the gates/ entryways of any bushes or potential hiding places; . Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should sleep in the house;. An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company, acts as an effective deterrent. It is advantageous to have an alarm system that has the capability to warn occupants of any intrusion;. Keep emergency telephone numbers – the police, ambulance, security company, neighbourhood watch and such – close to the telephone or where it is easily visible;. Report any suspicious activities or circumstances to the police, local neighbourhood watch and/or security company.
