Measuring the Perceptions of where and when most Residential Burglaries occur in the Newlands East Policing Precinct, Durban

This study investigates the spatial and temporal distribution of residential burglaries in the Newlands East Policing Precinct of Durban, South Africa. Understanding geographic and temporal crime patterns is crucial for developing effective crime prevention strategies and optimizing resource deployment. Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilized focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews with 37 participants, including members of the South African Police Services (SAPS), Community Policing Forums (CPFs), local ward councillors, and community members. Findings revealed that burglaries are spatially concentrated in the Newlands West area, particularly in Westrich, Castlehill, and Earlsfield, with contributing factors such as poverty, inequality, unemployment, environmental design, and inadequate guardianship. Temporally, burglaries predominantly occur during daytime hours on weekdays, especially between 07:00 and 17:00, and exhibit seasonal spikes during December and the summer holiday period, coinciding with residents’ absence. The study further highlights the recurrence of burglaries at the same premises, underscoring the role of offender familiarity and repeat victimization. These results emphasize the necessity of a multi-stakeholder approach, involving law enforcement, municipal authorities, and community participation, to address the socio-economic drivers and situational factors of residential burglaries. This research contributes to the limited empirical literature on the spatial-temporal dimensions of burglary in South Africa and advocates for targeted, data-driven crime prevention interventions. Keywords: Crime Prevention, Residential Burglary, Spatial Analysis, Socio-Economic Factors, Temporal Patterns, Durban