Kabelo Masoabi
As the cheery spirit of the Christmas season looms over Thaba-Tseka, a palpable sense of anxiety stirs among residents due to the alarming trend of rising burglaries that typically accompanies this festive time.
Local authorities are urging the community to be proactive in safeguarding their homes, emphasising the necessity of vigilance during this time when crime rates tend to soar.
In an interview with Newsday on Wednesday this week,i, who leads police in Thaba-Tseka, expressed his deep concerns regarding the annual spike in house robberies during the holiday season.
“In recent years, we have witnessed a steady increase in such crimes, particularly as families prepare to leave their homes unoccupied while they travel for the holidays,” Morapeli elaborated.
He said the allure of unguarded properties entices criminals looking for opportunities, particularly during a time when many residents let their guard down to focus on celebrations and gatherings.
He also pointed out a critical aspect of the holiday season: “This time of year often leads to increased expenditures as people indulge in shopping and festivities. Unfortunately, criminals are also aware of this trend and are motivated to exploit it for their own financial gain.”
He further advised the community that this is a crucial moment for households to strengthen their security measures, adding that simple protocols can deter potential burglars and protect their belongings.
Morapeli emphasised the importance of collective awareness, stating: “Although the holiday season is intended for joy, connection, and celebration with loved ones, we must not overlook the importance of our safety in the process. The spike in crime historically observed during this period serves as a warning for residents to remain alert, whether they are planning to travel for vacation or remain home to enjoy the festivities.”
A recent case in the district underscores the seriousness of the situation.
On December 13, a 44-year-old resident, Thabane Thabane, was sentenced to five years in prison by the Thaba-Tseka Magistrate Court after being found guilty of burglary and theft.
Thabane’s crime was particularly brazen; he broke into a local liquor business and stole a case of Castle Lite beer. The court heard that Thabane was not only a former employee but had retained a spare key to the establishment.
This incident is just a glimpse into the criminal activities that often flood the area during the holiday season, as SSP Morapeli noted.
“Only this morning, we received a report of another burglary that occurred at a business shack in town,” he reiterated, highlighting the continuous threat faced by local businesses.
He urged entrepreneurs and shopkeepers to remain vigilant, as thieves frequently observe their daily routines, waiting for the opportune moment to strike.
“If you notice anyone acting suspiciously around your premises, report it to the police immediately,” he advised, reinforcing the importance of community cooperation in crime prevention.
Furthermore, Morapeli elaborated on the underlying factors contributing to this seasonal rise in crime: increased consumer spending, greater availability of goods, and heightened alcohol consumption during celebrations.
“These elements can foster environments where theft and other crimes flourish,” he noted, expressing the need for heightened awareness among residents.
He also raised concerns regarding the potential rise in sexual assault incidents during the holiday festivities, which often involve an increase in drinking and social gatherings.
Understanding the dangers that accompany the season, police are actively implementing preventative measures.
They are engaging with community members through educational initiatives and awareness campaigns that will inform residents about the heightened risks during the festive period.
Such programs aim to arm the community with knowledge and practical tools to protect themselves from becoming victims of such crimes, according to Morapeli.
As the festive season approaches, Morapeli’s message to the residents of Thaba-Tseka is clear: while celebrating with family and friends, it is equally crucial to prioritise safety and security, creating a harmonious and protected environment for all to enjoy the holiday spirit.
