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Repeat Break-Ins on the Rise: Why South African Homes Are Being Targeted Again and Again
Criminals know your weaknesses and they’re coming back for more
South Africans are being urged to rethink their home security as a disturbing trend gains momentum: repeat home burglaries. Criminals aren’t just hitting and running, they’re coming back for seconds.
That’s the warning from MiWay Insurance’s executive head of Claims and Procurement, Youlon Naidoo, who says repeat break-ins are becoming more frequent, with criminals returning to homes they’ve already hit, often within days.
“These intruders are betting on the fact that valuables have been replaced, and they already know how to get past your defences,” says Naidoo. “Your home becomes a soft target once you’ve been hit.”
A crime trend backed by hard numbers
According to SAPS, South Africa saw over 36,000 burglaries at residential premises in the first quarter of 2025 alone along with more than 12,000 common robberies. That’s around 400 burglaries a day, even with a slight year-on-year decline.
For many residents, the stats are cold comfort. The emotional aftermath of a burglary, especially a second one, leaves homeowners anxious, traumatised, and feeling unsafe in their own homes.
Why repeat burglaries happen
Naidoo highlights several key reasons why burglars return:
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They spotted something they couldn’t carry out the first time.
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They now know how to get in and out, quickly.
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They assume your replacements (like TVs or phones) are brand new.
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They faced no real resistance the first time, giving them confidence to come back.
“Burglars are strategic,” says Naidoo. “If you don’t change anything, you’re inviting them back.”
The power of 10 days: What to do right after a break-in
Security experts say the first 10 days after a burglary are critical.
Here’s what you should do immediately:
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Replace or reinforce broken doors, windows, and locks even if insurance payouts haven’t come through yet.
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Change all external locks, even if you think keys weren’t taken.
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Install visible deterrents like CCTV, alarm signage, or motion-activated lighting.
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Use timers on lights, play background noise, or ask a neighbour to help make your home look occupied.
“Leaving a broken window for days tells burglars no one’s paying attention,” Naidoo explains. “Quick fixes make a strong statement.”
Opportunistic tactics: What you’re up against
Charnel Hattingh of Fidelity ADT adds that most burglaries are opportunistic and fast, with criminals often targeting portable electronics like laptops, tablets, and phones.
“They’re in and out in minutes. If your alarm’s not on or your perimeter isn’t secure, they’ll strike,” she warns. “Even when you go out for dinner or to watch the game, arm your alarm.”
Criminals are also getting bolder. In some cases, they’ve lured residents out of the house before making their move. Others target parked cars or tools lying around the yard when they can’t access the home itself.
Turn fear into action
The emotional damage after a second break-in can be devastating. Victims often report feeling watched, unsafe, and unable to relax in their homes even with upgraded security.
But there are ways to reclaim your space:
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Report the crime to your local neighbourhood watch or WhatsApp security groups.
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Share your experience to alert your community and encourage vigilance.
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Notify your insurer of any new security systems, some claims require that alarms and beams are in use.
“Security isn’t just about locks and alarms,” says Naidoo. “It’s about building a community where people watch out for each other.”
Protect now, regret never
Being robbed once is traumatic. Being robbed again by the same criminals is a violation that leaves deep emotional scars. But you don’t have to sit in fear.
Secure your home. Alert your neighbourhood. Double-check your insurance. And remember: you still have the power to take control of your space again.
{Source: BusinessTech}
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