Dubai: No villas that registered with the Dubai Police home security services have been robbed, a Dubai Police official said during an awareness campaign for home security on Tuesday.
Colonel Jamal Al Jallaf, Deputy Director of Dubai Police’s Criminal Investigation Department for Administration and Control, suggested that people should register with the Dubai Police service if they are travelling.
When homeowners are away, they often leave their home and contents unsupervised, leaving a window of opportunity for thieves.
Those who register with police can enjoy a little more peace of mind knowing that stepped up police patrols around homes that police know are empty may prevent property loss, he said.
“We chose to remind people about this service now, because it’s almost summer time and many people travel and leave their homes empty, leaving them an easy target for thieves,” he said.
In 2014, there were a total of 333 home burglaries in Dubai last year, about a four per cent increase from 321 in 2013. Of the 333 robberies, 197 were in villas, 14 were in traditional houses, and 122 were in apartments.
“It is now easier for people to register for the free service, as it is available on the Dubai Police Smart app. They can exactly pinpoint the location of their home using the location service, so our patrols know that this home is empty and ensure there are no suspicious activities.” Col Al Jallaf said.
The service is also available on the Dubai Police website or at any police station.
“With the smart app, people can even register from outside the country if they forget to do so before travelling.”
In 2014, there were 282 people registered with Dubai Police’s home security service, and 213 in 2013.
The service is available to anyone who lives in a villa, he said, as patrols cannot go and check each apartment.
However, people who live in apartments can take precautionary measures to avoid being robbed.
He said people should lock windows and doors, keep their valuables safely hidden, tell a trusted family member of friend to check their home from time to time, and install cameras or a home security system.
“If you get magazines or newspapers delivered to your home, you should inform the company to stop delivering them so they do not pile up, indicating your absence,” Col Al Jallaf explained.
