OnArmor Security Services has stepped in to improve safety at Robyn Park in Jukskei Park following a series of attacks on people.

Cedric Smith, the director of operations at OnArmor Security Services, said the company decided to install cameras in the area after hearing about people being attacked and robbed while using the river route. “We thought we’d just jump in there and try and protect that specific area.”

The project, funded entirely by OnArmor Security Services, involves installing cameras monitored 24 hours a day from the company’s control room. Smith said the cameras will allow the company to monitor the area and dispatch a 24-hour reaction vehicle when necessary.

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He said the decision was prompted by several incidents in the area, including a cyclist who was allegedly stabbed and women who were robbed of their cellphones and belongings. “The recent one was when a guy tried to bite the lady’s finger off to try and take a ring,” said Smith. “That’s when we thought this is enough now.”

Smith said the company had previously warned people against using that section of the river because of safety concerns, “but people insist and they want to go down, so we thought, we’re not going to stop them going down, so let’s try and protect them while they’re there.”

The company initially planned to install five cameras, with the number expected to increase to about eight. The cameras form part of a broader community involvement programme by OnArmor Security Services, which has operated in Northcliff, Douglasdale, Jukskei Park, Jukskei North, and North Riding for 11 years.

Smith said the company had undertaken about 15 community projects during the year, including events and initiatives that raise funds or provide support for community organisations.

The company also hosts an annual fun run, with funds going towards the Jukskei Park community forum for projects such as upgrading roads and cutting down trees that have fallen into roads.

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Smith said the company also supports animal welfare initiatives, including an SPCA drive and Woodrock Animal Rescue. The company also has a small dog rescue centre where lost dogs are temporarily cared for before their details are shared on community groups in an effort to reunite them with their owners.

The response to the cameras has already been positive, with residents sharing their appreciation on community groups and Facebook. Smith said the company wanted its involvement in the area to go beyond providing armed response services to its clients. “We want to be a company that does a lot more.”

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