GQEBERHA – Police is once again warning mourners and those who visit the grave sites of their dearly departed to be extra cautious and vigilant of their surroundings. This warning comes as there has been a notable increase in robberies at the Forest Hills cemetery in Humewood.

Since April, at least five robberies occurred at the cemetery.  The robbers threaten the victims with knives and rob them of their personal belongings. In some cases, they request for the vehicle keys and then steal whatever is in the vehicle. The robberies usually occur at any time during the day. The suspects are usually in a group between four and eight.

Mourners are advised not to visit grave sites alone. The area is quiet and the robbers lie in wait for their victims. There is also a thoroughfare through the cemetery which is often used by pedestrians and joggers. Visitors are also advised not to wear expensive jewellery and carry valuable items on their visits. If suspicious people are seen approaching you while at a grave site, try and make a hasty retreat or attract attention of other people if they are around.

Criminals have no boundaries and in most cases the vulnerable are easy targets. Let us be proactive, alert and take note of these hints in order to enhance your personal safety.

Source: South African Police Service