During April and May 2019, several cases of nut and fruit theft were reported in the White River area. As a result, members of AfriForum’s White River neighbourhood watch decided to increase patrols at the affected areas.
During one of these patrols, the neighbourhood watch received information about suspects stealing nuts from a storeroom and members of the Heidelvalley farm watch, J&M Security and the White River SAPS was called to assemble nearby. With fine planning, a raid was carried out and three suspects were arrested for theft. The estimated value of the stolen nuts was around R140 000.
Several attempts to steal fruit were also reported in the area and fruit valued at more than R60 000 was recently retrieved thanks to speedy action by a local security company.
“We urge farmers to become involved with our patrols and other proactive actions – it contributes greatly to bring the problem of theft in the area under control,” says Johan Pelser, Chairperson of AfriForum’s White River neighbourhood watch.
Join AfriForum’s White River neighbourhood watch today: SMS “Witrivier” to 45350 (R1).