The following discussion relates to the conclusions derived from the results of the study based on the objectives developed in Chapter One with the express purpose to consider the achievement of the aims of this research.
5.2.1 Exploring the SAPS perceptions on weather patterns on residential burglary in Newlands East Policing Area, Durban
The first aim of the study refers to exploring the SAPS perceptions of weather patterns on residential burglary in Newlands East Policing Area of Durban. This was accomplished using a semi-structured interview schedule (See Appendix one). From the analysis of data, it was evident that SAPS officials do have perceptions concerning weather patterns on residential burglary in Newlands East Area. That is, there is a link between changing weather patterns and the occurrences of residential burglary. The responses clearly demonstrated that residential burglary increase and decrease in relation to different weather conditions within the location of this study and as a result it can be concluded that weather patterns are indeed a contributory factor to residential burglary.
91
5.2.2 To understand the contributing factors of weather patterns in the occurrences of residential burglary in the Newlands East Policing Area
To achieve this objective, the participants were asked to share their own understanding if weather patterns contribute to the occurrences of burglary at residential premises in Newlands East Policing Area. This objective was also accomplished, and the contributing factors are identified and summarised in the following table below:
Table 5.1: Contributing factors of weather patterns on residential burglary
Identified factors by the SAPS officials
Understanding of how the cited factor contributes
1.Cold winter nights - Makes individuals to go to bed early, sleep longer and as result hesitate to get out of bed even if they hear a sound of a burglary occurring. Even neighbourhood watches which are established to prevent residential burglary are not effective when it is cold since people want to sleep during such times.
- The long winter nights give criminals more time to commit crime and the darkness in winter offers extra cover for them.
-Removes eye witnesses since people will not go outside and as a result it creates suitable targets.
2. Rainy seasons The sound of the rain makes residential burglary go unobserved (can’t hear windows and doors breaking or opening)
- No neighbours/onlookers in sight since people are not out and about their ordinary activities and people cannot notice suspicious vehicles because they will just be in their houses.
- Poor lighting caused by the rain.
- People are unobservant, much led back, not alert as well as do not look out for each other during rainy days. They are largely not bothered to take note of things happening outside.
3. Hot temperatures One of the most effective strategies against burglary at residential premises is to lock the doors, windows and gates of one’s home, however this is neglected during hot temperatures.
- People tend to be negligent in more ways than one, during such weather conditions as they even leave clothes outside to dry.
Source: Researcher’s analysis
From the above table, it is evident that the qualitative methodology brought about new insight on the casual link between weather patterns and the occurrences of burglary at residential premises. Even
92
though much of the discoveries are repetitive of the assumptions made in previous research, the understanding that the police officials gave cannot be ignored. They provided real life experiences and examples to the assumptions which were previously made. In addition, they pointed to additional contributing factors which were not provided in previous research (1) people’s sleeping patterns during winter (2) the long winter nights (3) people being unobservant, (4) not looking out for each other as well as (5) not being able to take note of things happening outside if it’s raining. Overall, the primary aim of this study has been accomplished.
5.2.3 Explore the current strategies employed by the Newlands East SAPS in response to weather patterns and residential burglary
The analysis revealed that there are strategies that have been put in place to respond to weather patterns on residential burglary Newlands East. The strategies include: High police visibility, stop and searches, patrols (on foot and by car), drug arrests, community crime awareness programmes, partnership with local stakeholders and relying on informers. The police officials felt that these strategies were effective, however they added that they could be even more effective given the manpower, since they currently do not have enough vehicles at the station and people working there to cover the whole of Newlands. This shortage of resources within the police station was expressed as a source of frustration for the police officials. Additionally, participants felt that they could be more effective if there was creation of employment, more community awareness programmes and assistance from the community in the fight against crime.
5.2.4 To evaluate the challenges that may exist between the local SAPS and residents in responding to burglary at residential premises during unfavourable weather patterns
The analysis highlighted that there are challenges which exist that hindered them in responding to this crime. The challenges included the community members not wanting to work with the police especially in terms of community policing and giving information. This revealed that there is an element of criminal protection by some community members. This challenge also highlighted a lack of trust that the community members have for the police officials. This is an issue of concern because in order to be effective policing, the police officials cannot be isolated from the community they are serving.
93
5.2.5 Identification of community’s engagement in addressing burglary at residential premises during weather patterns changes
It is evident from the analysis that not all community members are engaged in addressing this crime and that the structures which are established to address the crime together with the community are not implemented with immediate success in the community. A central and well-articulated gap relates to co-operation with the community in responding and preventing burglary at residential premises, this gap relates to the mentioned of the community members not taking an active part in the community forums which are established in the community to communicate and co-operate and address this crime together.