Observatory Community

Crime in Obs in on the rise

As usual Insp. Nel presented the Woodstock SAPS crime report at the last night's ONW committee meeting. It is clear from year-on-year comparison (March 2009 and March 2008) that crime in Sector 1 (that's us) has suddenly got much worse.

We are not allowed to give actual figures but there have been sharp increases (e.g. sometimes by as muchas 300%) in crimes such as assault, robbery, and aggravated robbery (where a weapon is used). Residential and business housebreaking ismore or less constant, but theft of motor vehicles and theft out of motor vehicles has doubled. People continue to leave items like laptops in their cars!

The increase is partly because there are more criminals around, and partly because of Woodstock Police's reduced capacity for crime prevention (not their fault).
It also obvious that crime in our Sector (Observatory) is generally much worse than in other sectors (Salt River, Woodstock). This applies in particular to crimes such as housebreaking. Criminals in Salt River prefer to walk across Rochester Road and break into houses in Obs, rather than in their own community (where they would probably be well-known). In terms of drug-related arrests, however, Salt River is ahead by a long way.

Security Tip

The criminals have found a new technique to get around external beams. We won't publish the information here, but will respond to email. Check your beams regularly, especially after an alarm activation.

Vehicle Patrols

We have now got 12 active vehicle patrollers - not enough to patrol in all areas or for 24/7.The effectiveness of a neighbourhood watch depends entirely on the active support and participation of residents.If you want to assist, please email us on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The ONW Committee Meetings are open to all members of the ONW. The dates are available on obz.org.za. The full minutes are available from the secretary on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Approved minutes will be available on www.obz.org.za website after the next meeting.