Petty crime around Stellenbosch has been on the rise since the return of students in late February 2021. This was according to Captain Nathalie Martin, communications officer of Stellenbosch South African Police Service (SAPS).
The Stellenbosch CBD has been specifically targeted for theft so far this year, said Martin.
Although current statistics have yet to be disclosed, Stellenbosch SAPS “anticipates a higher incidence of theft compared to 2020”, according to Martin. During 2020, a total of 2 326 property-related crimes, 1 770 cases of common theft and 1 267 motor vehicle thefts have been recorded in the Stellenbosch area, according to the most recent crime statistics available on the SAPS website.
“Stellenbosch SAPS sees a lot of bicycle and cellphone theft, as well as robbing of money at ATMs,” said Martin. She also warned the public against a “rise in the number of thefts out of motor vehicles [parked within Stellenbosch CBD]”.
Reinard Fourie, general manager of Stellenbosch Watch, said that restaurants and bars along Andringa Street, Bird Street and Beyers Alleyway also appear to be target areas.
The residential areas of “Papegaaiberg, Paradyskloof, Jamestown, and Die Boord” also appear vulnerable, according to Fourie.
Since late February, there has been an increase in incidents of petty crime across Stellenbosch following the return of the students. According to Reinard Fourie, general manager of Stellenbosch Watch, and Captain Nathalie Martin, communication officer of Stellenbosch SAPS, residents should report suspicious activity to Stellenbosch Watch on 021 887 0911 or 021 886 8976 or Stellenbosch SAPS on 021 809 5015. PHOTO: Jana Scheepers
An increase in petty crime is synonymous with an increase in students, said Martin. The rise in students results in an increase in town activity, which creates more targets for petty thieves. There are also more cars parked in town which, when left unattended, fall victim to petty crime, according to Fourie.
The alleged thieves engaging in petty crimes are not necessarily easily recognisable, because they’re often young males between the ages of 20 and 40 who are dressed like students, said Fourie.
Petty crime usually takes place from “12:00 until 15:00 when cars are left unattended, and again from 20:00 until curfew”, said Sergeant Jason Rhoda from Stellenbosch SAPS.
Fourie further specified that alleged thieves target unaccompanied and possibly inebriated females to minimise the risk of retaliation.
Both Fourie and Martin agreed that these alleged petty thieves are not “dangerous criminals” and are likely to flee when approached by security officials, but may fight if provoked.
An armed response vehicle from ABC security company in Dorp Street, Stellenbosch. PHOTO: Jana Scheepers