THE deputy chairperson of the Glen An-Hills Neighbourhood Watch, Avi Pillay, has praised an alert community member who spotted a suspect who had allegedly stolen a generator and tools from a home on Cranberry Grove on Wednesday morning (November 20).

According to Pillay, the suspect was spotted by a resident in the area, walking on one of the streets nearby with a portable generator and various tools.

“She alerted our neighbourhood watch WhatsApp group and, in turn, the various security companies also on the group. Because of her post, one of the residents recognised his generator. His location was relayed to a security company, and he was arrested and taken to Greenwood Park Police Station. He was charged with theft. As the neighbourhood watch, we want to commend the alert neighbour as we’ve noticed an uptick in thefts in the area,” he said.

Also read: Suspects linked to Avoca robbery arrested

Pillay urged the community of Glen Hills and Glen Anil to remain vigilant as there has also been an increase in copper theft and theft-out-of motor vehicles.

“Given the crime stats in the last few years, there is a drastic increase in theft between November and December. We have noticed a number of copper thefts, fence-hopping or trespassing cases, and what some would deem petty theft.

“We urge the community to report suspicious activity, and if they are victims of crime, to open a case at the police station nearest to them. Also, keep emergency numbers on hand, and remember to keep all doors and windows closed at night,” he said.

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