Athlone police are urging business owners to close shop earlier to avoid being robbed, especially as the festive season approaches.
This was revealed at the Athlone Partnership meeting held at the Athlone police station last Wednesday.
Athlone police station’s visible policing commander, Colonel Clive Nicholas, said that businesses in Athlone, particularly those on Klipfontein Road should close their shops at 10pm for the latest to avoid becoming targets of crime.
He said during October, there had been 11 business break-ins and five business robberies.
Mr Nicholas said despite urging owners to close shop after a break-in or robbery, the shops remained open and valuable evidence such as fingerprints disappeared. “We appeal to business owners to keep the shop closed until we have examined the crime scene,” he said.
Station commander, Colonel Mark Adonis, also urged business owners to be alert when depositing large amounts of money.
Another issue which was discussed was the constant dumping in Athlone. Law Enforcement’s David Mhanana said illegal dumping must be reported to the City of Cape Town and that informants should provide as many details as possible. “Offenders will be fined R5 000 fine for the vehicle, which will also be impounded. The offender will also receive an additional R8000 fine,” he said.