By Fahad Al Ghadani — MUSCAT: May 9 - Planning a summer holiday? Make sure you secure your house before you go on vacation.
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has urged both citizens and residents to take necessary precautions to prevent thefts. “House owners should make sure their doors are properly locked. Also consider installing cameras to ward off crimes and help in catching thieves,” it said.
It has asked citizens and residents to remain cautious and guard their valuables.
If anyone witnesses a theft, report it to the police immediately, it said.
The alert came after a national was arrested in the Wilayat of Saham for stealing cash and jewellery worth RO 20,000 from five houses, according to the Inquiries and Criminal Investigation, ROP.
The accused was found looking for “dark and empty” houses, meaning homes whose occupants were away. ROP records indicate the cases of house theft increase during the season as many citizens and residents go on vacation.
The police have asked the public to take all safety measures, including installation of surveillance cameras and burglar alarms.
Don’t keep windows or doors open, but keep some lights on, it said.
Last March, 16 people were arrested on charges of thefts from shops in Samayil and Izki.
They had stolen cash and luxury goods. The Observer had recently carried a report on the measures taken by Muscat Municipality, including installation of CCTV cameras and deployment of guards, at Muttrah Souq following thefts in the premises. ROP statistics indicate a 32 per cent dip in thefts in February compared with the same period last year. A total of 109 cases of theft were reported in February as against 161 in the same month last year. A total of 95 people, including 51 Omanis and 44 expats, were charged with thefts in February as against 118 in the same month last year.
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