Erected tower to help signal street cameras
The Community Patrolling Initiative (CPI) has so far introduced 26 smart street cameras in Van Dyk Park
As part of the Community Patrolling Initiative’s (CPI) efforts to curb crime in Van Dyk Park, a 17-metre tower was erected in the yard of the AGS Oasis Van Dyk Park Church on February 19.
The tower will be used to stream the footage from the street cameras in Van Dyk Park more efficiently.
The launch of the tower was attended by community members as well as Ward 31 councillor alderman Jackie Reilly.
Reiley praised the CPI for its continued efforts in combating crime in the area.
According to CPI chairperson Anton Botha, for the past few years, they were streaming directly from a camera pole but due to trees around the pole which grew in the past two years, it blocked their line of sight for the cameras.
“Now that we have erected the tower, it will enable us to set up even more cameras in the area which will then be directly connected to the CPI control room. With the unprecedented spike in crimes, it is necessary to always be one step ahead,” said Botha.
“We would like to thank Sarens Siba, Reysons Industrial Supplies, JAQ Electrical, JMJ Projects, Aspire Photography, CPI members and Van Dyk Park residents who helped with the building, welding and erection of the tower,” he said.
The security up grade forms part of the 2018 CPI initiative to reduce crime in Van Dyk Park by introducing street cameras.
So far, about 26 street cameras have been installed in strategic streets, including exit and entrance points in Van Dyk Park.
Botha said since they have introduced the camera systems in the area, they have had major successes working with the Dawn Park SAPS.
Residents of Van Dyk Park are donating money every month to finance the equipment.
The chairperson of the CPI mentioned that apart from the camera system, CPI is also at the forefront with its extensive radio network and 24-hour control centre, which keeps patrollers and community members in contact with one another as well as securing a quick response in case of an emergency.
Also Read: CPI continues to lessen crime in Van Dyk Park
Also Read: Van Dyk Park initiative challenges community to be proactive
