Several break-ins in recent months, including two at the Hawston Library within two days, have left the community furious, and they are calling for improved policing in the area.
Hundreds of residents signed a petition to be handed to authorities, including the local police, the senior state prosecutor at Hermanus Magistrate’s Court, Overstrand Deputy Mayor Elnora Gillion and the municipal manager, as well as the Western Cape police ombudsman.
Hawston resident Isaac Claasen says he decided to draw up the petition because of the scourge of break-ins, especially those at the Hawston Library.
Overstrand Municipality’s Acting Municipal Manager Edward Jantjies confirmed the library break-ins on 26 and 27 October.
An air-conditioning unit was stolen in the latest incident. Exterior lights and another air-conditioning unit were stolen in earlier incidents. Extensive damage to the ceiling, the protective cage around the air-conditioning unit, the gate, and the security fence was also noted.
“The estimated cost of replacing the stolen air-conditioning units and repairing the damage is approximately R50 000,” Jantjies said.
“Hawston Library is an important community facility, providing access to books, educational resources and wi-fi in a safe and quiet space to study, particularly during the examination period.
“Incidents of theft, vandalism, and damage to public infrastructure may affect the availability of these services and resources, which many residents rely on,” he added.
Hermanus SAPS head of detectives, Lieutenant Colonel Nicky Steyn, said no arrests had been made and confirmed that the increase in housebreakings in Hawston had been recorded.
“Patrols by the police, Overstrand Law Enforcement and certain security companies have been stepped up in the area because it is a focus point for criminal activities,” Steyn said.
He urged residents to report suspected criminal activities to the police. “It is clear that locals are committing the crimes and that the buyers of stolen goods are also local,” he concluded. ■
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