Police say, in most cases, the suspects have been armed with guns and have taken phones and other items from the victims.
The robberies have occurred in parking lots, breezeways and as victims are walking to or from their apartments and/or vehicles.
A few weeks ago, Owen Schaffer was at his computer when robbers barged into his apartment holding knives and making demands.
"Two guys stood in the back there and then one of them approached me directly with a cleaver," said Schaffer, whose cash and computer were taken. "It was scary of course to have three guys with weapons threatening you."
There have been several armed robberies in the past few weeks in Durham.
"One of my neighbors was pistol whipped here this week," said Casey Arrington. "From packages being lifted off the doorstep, to back doors being kicked in, it's getting serious around here unfortunately."
The Durham Police Department is providing the following safety tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you see anything suspicious, do not hesitate to call 911.
- Have your keys ready when you approach your apartment or vehicle.
- Do not carry extra cash or valuables.
- Do not walk alone at night. Darkness gives robbers an advantage.
- If someone follows you, do not drive home. Go to a well-lit place and report it.
- Avoid loiterers or people hanging out in groups.
- Walk briskly and with confidence.
- Do not let strangers inside your apartment. Use your peephole to see who is at the door.
Anyone with information about any robberies in these areas is asked to call District 3 Criminal Investigations at (919) 560-4583 or CrimeStoppers at (919) 683-1200.
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