ATM security hot topic at Forum meeting
Bulwer Community Safety Forum thanks the banks in the area for taking note of their security.
THE issues of security at banks and regulating car guards in the Bulwer area were the focus of the Bulwer Community Safety Forum meeting on Tuesday night.
Chairperson, Heather Rorick, said crime at the ATMs in Brand Road was of concern. She said she had approached the banks and met with the managers to discuss security.
“Using the ATMs at night is not safe. On our patrols we have seen vagrants sleeping by the banks, and there have been robberies at the ATMs. People should avoid using ATMs at night if possible,” she said.
According to Heather, Standard Bank are closing their ATMs after security leaves at 6pm.
Lynn Delport from Absa Bank attended the meeting to address the community.
“Absa has done research to see how many people are using the ATMs. From 15 October until the end of January, we will have 24 hour security on the premises. If assessment after January shows there are problems, we will also have to close our ATMs at night,” she said.
Dave Pusey from Park Smart spoke to the community about regulating car guards in the area. His company manages uniformed, formal car guards around Durban.
He will be working with Heather to build a network in the area and implement a system to decrease car theft.
“We will be working together to look at the areas where 'fly by night' car guards are operating. We need to sift out the bad and regulate and register the good, working in partnership with SAPS and Metro,” he said.
Heather said they were aiming to uplift the area and were working with Save Our Berea to put up signs, sponsored by Woolworths, to discourage people from giving to vagrants, but rather to donate to an organisation such as I Care.
Francois Geldenhuys from Mzansi Fire and Security spoke about crime trends in the area. He said theft was on the increase with the festive season approaching.
“Don't draw too much money at ATMs, rather draw at shopping centre tills. If you are walking on the streets put your cellphone away. Always be vigilant when entering or leaving your property, as hijacking is still high,” he said.
If you are interested in joining vehicle patrols with Bulwer Community Safety Forum or can donate air time for two-way radios, contact Heather on 074 203 2792.
