Rietgat SAPS urges the community of Soshanguve living near Block Y Cemetery and visitors to always exercise HIGH ALERT when passing through the graveyard or visiting it.
The Police have been informed that the graveyard has become a hunting ground for criminals who rob people of their belongings.
About ten armed robberies took place at different times and days of the week in the recent past, according to the Rietgat SAPS. The majority of victims report that they were robbed by three or four armed men wearing hoodies.
According to Corporate Communication Captain Stephen Maluleka, at times these perpetrators pounce on people coming to remove weeds around the graves of their loved ones or those who come to perform traditional rituals.
“Some community members who also fall victim to the crimes around this Cemetery are those who are using it as a thoroughfare or a shortcut while running their errands,” Said Maluleka
“As a result of these criminal incidents, the police would like to encourage residents to visit the graveyard in groups and at the time of day when one can be able to see a person approaching from a distance. Those using it as a shortcut to avoid and use other routes. Notwithstanding though some rituals require people to be at the graveyard earlier, however, they are encouraged to do so in groups to be safer,” Added Maluleka.
The police would also like to urge the community to report every crime they experience around this graveyard. The police would like to further assure the community that the area will be monitored throughout the 24 hours to get rid of perpetrators taking advantage of law-abiding citizens.
The police further request members of the community who might have information that may lead to the arrest of these criminals to contact them on their Crime Stop Hotline number 08600 10111 or Client Service Centre 071675 6250 or Station Commander on 082 455 8236
