Gate motor theft has become an alarming trend across several Gauteng areas, says Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity ADT’s group head of marketing and communications.

She explains that a thriving black market for gate motor parts drives these thefts.

“Stolen gate motors are stripped down for their components, like batteries and gearboxes, or sold in their entirety to unsuspecting homeowners.

“These criminals, often referred to as ‘access automation bandits’, are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods.”

According to Hattingh, a disturbing development is the deactivation of gate motors, allowing criminals to bypass security systems and enter properties via the manual override feature.

“This has raised concerns about the vulnerability of homes, even those with automated gates designed to enhance security.”

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Hattingh has tips for safeguarding your gate motor against theft and your property against a home invasion:

“Secure your gate motor in a steel casing or bracket, and always keep it locked. Suspects often place their hands through the gate if your gate motor is unsecured and installed next to a ‘palisade-type’ gate. They can then switch the gate to manual and access your property. Consider installing 180° beams that will monitor your gate.

“Use a good-quality lock to secure the motor’s theft-resistant cage.

“Preferably, opt for an insurance-rated padlock. Install adequate anti-lift brackets and weld a flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards.

“Combine mechanical anti-theft systems, such as traditional theft-resistant cages, with electronic notification devices, for example, sound bombs and global systems, for mobile communications units, which can send notifications to users when the device’s inputs are triggered.”

Hattingh says an electric gate should be one of the first perimeter deterrents to protect you from crime.

“Activate early-warning systems like garden beams and/or electric fencing and ensure these are linked to armed response.

“We must do our bit to reduce crime by making it harder for criminals. Safeguard your gate motors,” added Hattingh.

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