Central SA
Residents of Northview unite after armed robbery─── CASEY-LEE ANTHONY 10:23 Tue, 05 Nov 2024
Residents of a Kimberley suburb plan to take back their neighbourhood following a local robbery.
Conversations have been started in Northview on the next steps to make the community safer, especially for children and elderly people.
“We have so many elderly folks as well as women who live alone, and they all need protection,” said Northview resident Mariam Erasmus.
‘Not everyone has the means to rely on private security’
The community plans to hold a meeting soon to discuss safety measures, especially as the festive season draws near when crime usually rises.
“Not everyone has the means to rely on private security,” said resident Gary Erasmus on social media. “Patrols need to be conducted regularly in the evenings. Vigilance is of utmost importance.”
‘Five assailants reportedly broke into the complainant’s rented house’
The neighbouring community of Homestead has been used as an example of how a community can protect itself as they’ve established a watch group without external security measures.
Northview and Homestead are situated some 4 km north of the CBD, along Barkly Road. According to the 2011 census, Northview had 798 residents, while Homestead had 2,282 residents.
A family in Constance Street, Northview, was woken up early Monday (4/11) morning by the robbers.
Five assailants reportedly broke into the complainant’s rented house during the early morning hours, said police spokesperson Timothy Sam. They woke the occupants, tied them up and robbed them of their belongings. Nobody was injured.
Kimberley police are still searching for the suspects. Anyone with information may contact Det.Sgt. Vincent Phiri on 084 459 0644, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS app.
