Bolhuis bowls the Garlands over

We have all seen movies starring eagle-eyed private investigators (PI) pouring over evidence, identifying criminals from a pool of unlikely suspects.

We often gasp when the likeable guy next door confesses to his crimes, wondering how the PI came to his conclusions.

Members and guests of the Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club had the unique opportunity to rub shoulders with Mike Bolhuis, specialist investigator and owner of Specialised Security Services, at the Ebotse Golf and Country Estate, on August 24.

Bolhuis engaged with the ladies, listening to their concerns regarding the rise of crime and answering their questions without plunging too deep into the gory details of the criminal underground.

“We are continuously inundated with information about crime happening around us,” he said.

“It often seems like we get consumed with news of impending doom, destruction and chaos, but there is beauty all around.

“But to enjoy this beauty while protecting ourselves from unscrupulous criminals, we need to become positively paranoid.”

He explained criminals thrive on the element of surprise, catching their victims off-guard.

“There is no guarantee that crime will never affect you, whether it is physical or cyber-related, but arming yourself with information and remaining alert at all times is a good place to start,” he said.

“It is an unfortunate truth that authorities and decision-makers in our country are not doing enough in the fight against crime, often being reactive instead of proactive. The tides will not change soon. All we can do is to keep our wits about us.”

As the conversation flowed, Bolhuis slipped into his characteristic witty persona, mixing light-hearted antidotes.

Touching on the surge of illegal mining currently rocking the city, he said this booming industry is highly lucrative for those at the helm.

“As long as the top cats are making money from the informal mining trade, we will not see it being brought to an end soon,” he said.

“The reality is turf wars will rise and the authorities are gravely outnumbered, with many unfortunately being lured from their call of duty by shimmering yields.

“Criminals have no fear or respect for the rule of law and are often not held fully responsible for their actions. Criminal justice departments have to get on the same page in all spheres of government.”

Considering the increase in hijackings occurring on the country’s major highways, including the N12, Bolhuis further stated that unless motorists have undergone intensive tactical training, there is little to no way to ward off result-driven assailants.

“Your best defence is remaining attentive at all times,” he said.

“Our investigations have revealed luxury vehicles, including 4x4s, are high on criminal ‘shopping lists’ and this should put drivers of these vehicles on high alert.”

“When on the highway, plan your route and remain fully aware of your surroundings and other road users.

“Should you find yourself in a situation when a hijacking may occur, remember you are not RoboCop, comply and cooperate. In most cases, these people are armed, unpredictable and unafraid to pull the trigger. Safety in extreme situations like these is vital.

“It all seems incredibly overwhelming, with many running for the hills. We each have a choice,” he said.

“The fight against crime seems like a losing battle. The statistics are horrifying, but there is hope, even if it is just a dim glimmer.

“If we as South Africans can completely put our differences aside, look beyond religious, cultural and political affiliations to stand up for values and norms that form the backbone of humility, complete lawlessness cannot continue to survive.

“It starts with us; our mindset and remaining clear and absolute about our values.”

Members of the public are invited to contact Bolhuis and his team via his various social media platforms.

The club will meet again on September 28 to host its 25th Birthday Bash. For more information or to book, email

Margie Kostelac at margie.h@mweb.co.za.

Guests are welcome.

ALSO READ: Garlands has Christmas in July

ALSO READ: Garlands have a ‘tea-riffic’ time