Shelter For Abused Women, Children Targeted by Thieves In Series Of Break-ins

A safe haven for abused women and children in Heideveld, the Ihata Shelter, has become the target of heartless criminals who have burglarized the facility six times in less than three months.

The shelter, which provides refuge for victims of gender-based violence, is now facing mounting challenges to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.

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Thieves Steal Copper Pipes, Gate Motors, And More

Chief Operations Officer Nuraan Osman revealed that staff discovered significant damage to the shelter on Monday when they arrived at work.

The latest break-in saw thieves steal a gate motor, a light from the wall, and damage the electric fence.

Osman explained that since January, the setting has suffered six break-ins, with thieves stealing copper pipes, taps, and lights, and even causing roof damage.

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The criminal activities have forced the administration to invest in repairs, which are often difficult to afford due to their reliance on limited resources.

Rising Repair Costs And Financial Strain On The Shelter

As an NPO, the Ihata Shelter is not funded by the Department of Social Development and leases the property from the provincial government.

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The financial strain of repairing the facility, especially after each break-in, is becoming increasingly difficult.

Osman emphasized that the place is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for the 32 women and children currently residing there, but ongoing thefts are threatening their ability to stay open.

“The quote to repair the electric fence is R24,000, and as an NPO, these crime-related expenses are hard to cover,” she said.

No Arrests Made So Far

Despite reporting each break-in to the police, the shelter has yet to see justice.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that the latest theft, involving the electric motor for the gate, is under investigation at the Manenberg SAPS.

Although one person was arrested in connection with a previous theft, they were later released without facing charges.

The investigation continues, and no further arrests have been made.

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