Police Forum Report Sept 2011 - St Francis Bay Residents Association

The St Francis Bay Sector Police Forum calls on residents to be vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activity they see or encounter. There has been a recent spike in crime, particularly in Santareme and residents are further urged to embrace the concept of 'Neighbours helping Neighbours'. In this way the level of surveillance in our village can be raised significantly to help deter crime and apprehend perpetrators. Protection at one's own residence is also vital and homes should be made less inviting to criminals through the installation of perimeter beams, security lighting, alarm systems, fences and security walls. Watch dogs have also proved an excellent deterrent.

Non-permanent residents should be particularly vigilant when holidaying at their St Francis Bay homes. A normally unoccupied house in George Road was recently burgled when thieves forced a sliding door and stole various items while the family slept. The alarm was unarmed and this is a clear signal to residents to ensure their alarms are activated before going to sleep.

Be aware that certain job-seekers in the community are currently seeking work at wages well below market-related rates. This is a ploy to gain access to your property for the purpose of conducting surveillance for a planned burglary later.

Crime Spotter St Francis Bay on Facebook is an excellent initiative started by Lyn Aitken that can be used to keep abreast of breaking information and to post reports or comments which might prove useful in the fight against crime. You are urged to join the group on Facebook and make use of this excellent social utility.

The SAPS has requested assistance in finding St Francis Bay accommodation for a new staff member soon to relocate to the village. The new member has a wife, two children and seeks a two- to three-bedroom house at a rental between R3 000 to R5 000 a month. He is unlikely to take up the St Francis post if he cannot acquire accommodation and it is in the interests of our community to spread the word in order to ensure we don't lose him. Please contact Bruce Brooker on 042 294 0969 if you can help.