South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world, and residential burglaries are among the most common crimes committed. In fact, 8 out of 10 residential burglaries in South Africa are carried out with the help of relevant factual details provided by current and former staff members of homeowners such as gardeners, cleaners, housekeepers, and former workers.
Burglars in South Africa usually surveil houses for around two weeks before striking, and most attacks occur between 7 pm and midnight, when people are in a relaxed state, such as sleeping, cooking, or watching TV. The burglars take advantage of this time frame because the security systems and beams are not yet activated. In some cases, burglaries may continue until 4 am.
It is alarming to note that 97% of burglars in South Africa are equipped with or carrying firearms, and robbery crews generally consist of four people. Most residential burglars in South Africa are between the ages of 19 to 26, and 30% of them have engaged in acts of murder or will not be reluctant to commit murder.
Foreigners are not responsible for the majority of residential burglaries in South Africa, as only 17% of them are foreigners. The majority of burglars have no matric qualification or are out of work, with 90% of arrested burglars falling into this category. Shockingly, the 10% who had been employed chose to leave their jobs to engage in burglaries once they realized the potential profits.
Wealthy individuals who publicly flaunt their wealth are often the victims of residential burglaries in South Africa. These individuals drive pricey cars and wear expensive clothing and jewelry. Burglars in South Africa execute an average of 103 robberies over a period of 7 years before being apprehended.
The conviction rate for residential burglaries in South Africa is a mere 7.67%, and burglars are not deterred by security measures such as alarms and armed response services. However, electric fences, detection beams, closed-circuit television (CCTV), and little dogs that sleep inside with homeowners are considered effective deterrents by burglars.
To protect themselves and their homes, South African homeowners should ensure that shrubs and trees are trimmed back, particularly around windows and doors. It is also important to secure yard areas and not leave articles that may aid a robber in entering the home. Homeowners should never leave ladders, stackable boxes, or garden tools lying around the yard, and they should move outdoor furniture inside at night.
Second-story windows are often left unsecured in South Africa, making it easier for burglars to enter. Homeowners can discourage possible climbers by spreading grease on any metal drainpipes near windows. Vaseline or clear automotive grease can be used, depending on the color of the pipe. A barking dog, varying daily routines, and the presence of CCTV cameras can also make a home less appealing to burglars.
Finally, homeowners in South Africa should be cautious when hiring domestic workers and service providers who have access to their homes. Trustworthiness is crucial when it comes to these individuals. By taking these precautions, homeowners in South Africa can protect themselves and their homes from burglaries.
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