Increase in criminal activity after Tongaat tornado

The aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck Tongaat on Monday has left the community not only grappling with the destruction of their homes but also with a surge in criminal activity.

Residents of the affected areas, particularly Sandfields and Fairbreeze, are now facing a new threat as thieves exploit the chaos to loot the damaged properties.

Reports to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) indicate that drug addicts are infiltrating homes that were severely damaged by the tornado, stealing anything of value they can find. The situation has become dire for many residents who are already struggling to cope with the loss and destruction caused by the natural disaster.

One elderly woman from Sandfields shared her distressing experience with Reaction Officers, explaining that her grandsons have taken to sleeping outdoors to safeguard their remaining possessions. The family’s home was extensively damaged, leaving them vulnerable to opportunistic criminals who are taking advantage of the lack of security.

“The widespread power outages in the tornado-stricken areas have exacerbated the problem, providing cover for thieves to carry out their activities under the cloak of darkness. The absence of electricity has plunged these neighbourhoods into complete darkness at night, creating an ideal environment for criminal acts,” said RUSA’s Prem Balram.

Many families have had to abandon their homes entirely, forced to relocate due to the extensive damage. These vacant properties have become prime targets for looters, who are stripping them of any remaining valuables.

“There is just such a sense of helplessness among the residents as they witness their already devastated homes being further ransacked,” said Mr Balram.

RUSA and other security, relief and aid organisations are patrolling the affected areas, responding to calls from concerned residents.

“The scale of the damage and the number of vacant properties has made it difficult to provide adequate protection. The community’s call for increased security measures and support has grown louder as they struggle to protect what little they have left,” said Mr Balram.

Local authorities are urging residents to report any suspicious activity immediately and to work together to keep an eye on each other’s properties.

Community watch groups are being encouraged to increase their vigilance during these vulnerable times, and efforts are also being made to restore power to the affected areas as quickly as possible to deter further criminal activities.