PROJECT: INCREASE IN HOUSE BREAK-INS
- isabels39
- Jul 28
- 5 min read
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PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY
House Break-ins Surge by 12%
According to the latest SAPS annual crime report, residential burglaries have increased by over 12% across South Africa,
with some provinces such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape recording even higher spikes.
This alarming surge highlights a growing trend of coordinated and opportunistic criminal activity, often taking place during load shedding, early mornings, or late evenings when homes are most vulnerable. Criminals are now using more sophisticated tools and inside information, frequently operating as part of syndicates that target entire neighbourhoods.
These developments underscore the urgent need for every South African household to take proactive and
layered security measures to safeguard both property and lives.
COMMON TACTICS:
Criminals are highly strategic and often target homes with visibly weak or neglected security. Residences without alarm systems, with broken gates, no dogs, or overgrown gardens signal easy access and low risk of detection.
They often strike during load shedding or in the early morning hours, when alarm batteries may be flat or security systems are offline, increasing their window of opportunity.
In many cases, insider information plays a critical role. Domestic workers, contractors, or even neighbours may — knowingly or unknowingly — share details about your home’s layout, security measures, or daily routines.
Criminals are also known to observe household patterns over time.
They monitor when residents leave for work, when children are dropped off at school, and when security guards rotate shifts.
Finally, they often bypass security systems by exploiting unprotected or overlooked access points such as back doors, garages, or unsecured windows.
SAFETY MEASURES:
PHYSICAL SECURITY:
Install burglar bars on all opening windows and ventilators.
Fit security gates on all external doors, especially front, back, and kitchen entrances.
Use motion-sensor floodlights around the perimeter to deter criminals at night.
Reinforce doors with:
Anti-lift hinges.
Anti-tamper locking mechanisms.
Security door frames.
Install a peephole or smart door camera to verify visitors before opening.
Trim trees, shrubs, and hedges near windows, doors, or walls — they create hiding spots for intruders.
Secure your perimeter with strong fencing or walls, topped with electric fencing or spikes.
Get a trained watchdog or loud-barking dog (also a major deterrent).
TECHNOLOGY AND SMART SECURITY:
Use a reliable alarm system, linked to a reputable armed response company.
Install CCTV cameras – even dummy cameras can scare off intruders.
Add solar or battery-powered lights to stay protected during load shedding.
Use smart locks, panic buttons, and remote monitoring apps.
BEHAVIOURAL AWARENESS:
Do not advertise absences (e.g. on social media) when going on holiday.
Set interior lights on timers to simulate presence at night.
Always lock gates and doors, even when you are home or just "stepping out."
Avoid leaving tools, ladders, or garden furniture outside — they can assist break-ins.
Teach domestic workers and children basic security awareness and emergency numbers.
Vary your routines occasionally to make surveillance harder for criminals.
Be alert to unfamiliar vehicles or people in your street.
Teach your family emergency procedures and safe room protocols.
INSURANCE:
Many South African homeowners are shocked to discover that their home insurance would not pay out for burglary-related claims if they fail to meet the minimum security requirements set by their policy.
These requirements are not optional — they are contractually binding conditions.
If they are not met, insurers may lawfully reject your claim.
COMMON MINIMUM SECURITY STANDARDS INCLUDE:
Burglar bars on all opening windows.
Security gates on external doors.
A functioning burglar alarm system linked to armed response.
Proof that the alarm was activated at the time of the incident.
Adequate outdoor lighting and perimeter fencing.
PROOF OF OWNERSHIP IS ESSENTIAL:
Insurance providers require evidence that you owned the stolen items.
To avoid claim delays or rejections:
Photograph all high-value items in your home (jewellery, electronics, appliances).
Record serial numbers for TVs, laptops, tablets, and other tech.
Keep original receipts or valuation certificates, especially for luxury goods and heirlooms.
Store backups of all documents in the cloud or a secure digital vault.
TRACK WHAT YOU CAN:
Install tracking software on laptops, phones, and tablets.
Consider discreet tracking devices for safes, artwork, and other portable valuables.
REVIEW YOUR POLICY ANNUALLY:
Many policies change terms without much notice — or include clauses you may have forgotten.
Make sure to ask:
Are you required to have armed response?
Do you need to provide alarm activation logs in case of burglary?
Have any new exclusions or deductibles been added?
Regular reviews with your broker or insurer help ensure that you remain compliant — and fully covered when disaster strikes.
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS FOR HOMEOWNERS:
Register with your local CPF (Community Policing Forum).
Do a security audit of your property — or hire a security professional.
Create or join a street WhatsApp group for instant alerts.
Put up visible security signage – even a sign saying "Armed Response" can deter burglars.
Report suspicious activity immediately – do not wait for something to happen.
Support or volunteer for neighbourhood patrols.
Attend community security meetings to stay informed.
Share safety content with friends, family, and on social media — awareness saves lives.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS:
SAPS Emergency Number: 10111
Private Armed Response: Your security provider’s 24/7 line.
Mr. Mike Bolhuis and his specialised safety and security investigators at SSS.
Do not wait for a break-in to take security seriously.
Take action now. From simple improvements like trimming trees to investing in smart tech,
every step adds a layer of protection.
Protect your home, your family, and your neighbourhood.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
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Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
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E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
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