PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - With load-shedding reaching Stage 6 once again, Plett crimefighters are urging residents to be extra vigilant as criminals have been taking advantage of the extended power outages. 

This follows two extensive burglaries in Plett during the weekend that saw residents suffer big losses.

Lisa Nagel of Plett.Watch - a local neighbourhood watch group that includes local security companies and other crime fighters - said the residents of both houses were away at the time of the burglaries.

"It is imperative that residents test their alarm systems and check their batteries," she said. "My suggestion is that when you are going away, please do not announce the fact, and only let those you can trust implicitly know that you will be away.

"Make sure you leave a set of keys with a trusted person. Ensure that your security company has alternate numbers to call if they can not get hold of you."

According to Nagel there had also been several burglaries where the suspects gained entry through the roof of the targeted home. "The criminal goes in through the roof and cuts the alarm system wires in the ceiling, rendering the system inactive." She suggested contacting security companies to install a system that will alert them to such an incident.

She also urged residents to check that outside electrical boxes on their properties are securely locked.

"Criminals will turn off these switches and wait until your alarm batteries are drained and then break in."

Residents are reminded to keep serial numbers of all electronic equipment and to photograph and keep details of high value items, especially jewellery, artwork and bicycles. "In case of a burglary, you will be able to show what has been stolen, with serial numbers, which will enable the identification of your property a lot easier."

Victims of crime must also be sure to open a case with police and see the subsequent process through. "Many crimes are committed by repeat offenders who get away with it time and again due to apathetic follow-through by victims.

"Once their insurance has paid out, they drop the case and the criminal goes free, ready to commit more crimes. Our safety and security resources are thinly spread to begin with and our detectives are inundated with dockets that end up going nowhere as the complainant has let the matter slide.

"Follow through and help put the criminals where they belong - behind bars."

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