Car theft prompts Northampton residents to form neighbourhood safety group
‘The intention is very much to be proactive rather than reactive’
The early morning theft of a car on Wilford Avenue in Nortampton has led to residents joining forces in a bid to improve safety.
When one of Moshraf Ali Shazan’s neighbours fell victim to the theft last month, Moshraf knew he wanted to try and prevent anything similar happening again.
He and his neighbours have now created a new group to help prevent further crime.
Moshraf said: “The main purpose of the group is to improve communication between residents, share information about suspicious activity, make people more aware of vehicle and home security, and encourage residents to look out for one another.
“The intention is very much to be proactive rather than reactive and hopefully prevent further incidents. More than 30 people have now agreed to join a dedicated neighbourhood safety WhatsApp group.
“We are keen to do something constructive after this crime and take practical steps to make the neighbourhood safer.”
Moshraf is in discussions with police and the council for crime-prevention advice.
He says many residents did not know the crime had taken place, and that some small changes would improve safety in Wilford Avenue.
He added: “The recent vehicle theft has made residents much more aware of their security.
“A lot of people weren’t aware the theft had happened that morning, so I went around every house on the street to let them know.
‘Everyone was really shocked and very appreciative that I had taken the time to inform them.
“Better street lighting and a more visible police presence would make a real difference.”