Over the past few months, crime has rapidly increased in the Athlone area resulting in businesses and residents voicing their concerns about safety and security within the community.
Residents have once again renewed their call for an end to criminal activity following the alleged abduction of a well-known businessman, Naushad Khan, who was kidnapped outside his store, the popular Khan’s Punjabies.
Six men are believed to have abducted Khan outside his clothing store as he and his store manager closed the store on Monday evening.
President of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Janine Myburgh feels that crime is a major problem.
Myburgh says that citizens have become accustomed to a life of crime and have accepted that crime is an everyday occurrence and feel that they are not capable to change this.
“People need to become vigilant and they need to cooperate with the police. Being aware of crime happening in the community and not reporting it is not helping anyone,” Myburgh stated.
she added that it is vital for anyone to report criminal activities to the police and testify against the culprit’s committing these crimes.
Myburgh adds that with the festive season approaching, businessman should observe caution.
“During the festive season, businesses tend to open a bit earlier and close later than usual,” Myburgh noted.
Given the surge in criminal activity, she encourages business owners not to keep large sums of money on their premises.
Myburgh urges all shop owners to be aware of their surroundings and to keep a watchful eye over people entering their shops, especially those who visit the shop frequently and checking the store without really purchasing anything.
She further notes that it is also vital that all stores install security cameras and alarm systems in order to ensure that all avenues are exhausted to facilitated their security.
[Loushe Jordaan]
