ART THEFT IN LOCKDOWN By Gail Bosch
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t has been a common misperception historically that only electronics and jewellery are stolen in South Africa, but art theft, even though not as common, is happening. We have no intention of downplaying the risk of theft of high valued jewellery, and the increased levels of theft in this category. As levels of desperation among the population increase with the impact of the COVID-19 virus and resultant lockdown on the income of so many, so too do the levels of crime. We have been in lockdown for about a year now, that sounds incredible to put in writing, but it’s been a year in which high numbers of people no longer earn a living. Putting bread on the tables has become a much more difficult task. The reasons are many, they may be justified, but the fact remains that many people are hungry. This is perhaps, not the ideal time to wear your best jewellery to the grocery store. Not only because you need to go through the process of claiming from your insurance, but also because it is dangerous. No insurer wants to tell their clients that they should rather not take the risk, but we live in extraordinary times. Quite frankly, insurance will earn higher premiums for Jewellery and watches that are worn regularly when compared to cover whilst in a bank vault or home safe only. It will protect your financial investment in your collection, but nothing can replace the irreplaceable when it comes to sentimental value. Even more important, there is nothing that is worth the safety of you and your family.
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Jeffrey Jason, Karootoneel, Oil On Canvas, 900 x 1200mm
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