BLUE Security has said that according to its data, theft remains the most reported incident across monitored areas.

The security company revealed this as it stated that crime trends across Durban highlights the importance of remaining vigilant ahead of the Festive Season.

The company said that recent crime data provides insight into the challenges and improvements shaping community safety.

Blue Security Crime Trends Reports for August and September 2025, together with the latest SAPS and Stats SA findings, show that while certain crime categories continue to decrease, others have increased.

Commercial Director at Blue Security Stephen Wimborne said after a small decline in August, theft climbed sharply in September from 95 to 134 cases.

Wimborne added that armed robbery also rose from 13 to 27 incidents, while burglary and trespassing eased slightly.

According to Wimborne, these figures suggest that opportunistic crimes are again on the rise as activity across the city increases with warmer weather and year-end movement.

Criminal activity was recorded at all times of day in September, with the evening period between 18:00 and 24:00 remaining the most active time, said Wimborne.

He said both daytime and night-time incidents increased month on month, with Monday and Tuesday overtaking weekends as the busiest days for reported incidents.

“While we saw an increase in certain categories in September, there are also encouraging signs that visible patrols, early detection, and active neighbourhood involvement are helping to reduce burglaries and trespassing,” said Wimborne.

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“Security is not only about technology. It is about how consistently we use it. Checking beams and sensors, ensuring outdoor lighting is working, and keeping alarms armed after dark make a big difference.”

Blue Security recorded 145 000 alarm signals in September and covered more than 719 000km of patrols.

Wimborne explained that this aligns with the seasonal increase in crime activity typically seen before the festive period.

SAPS’s latest quarterly report for KZN recorded 1 193 murders, 5 629 robberies with aggravating circumstances, and over 7 500 cases of assault GBH. Stations such as Phoenix, Chatsworth, and Verulam continue to feature among the country’s highest for serious crimes.

At a national level, Stats SA’s Victims of Crime Survey, released in August 2025, revealed that only about 36% of South Africans feel safe walking alone at night. The survey also found that house break-in remains the most common household crime, with an estimated 1.5 million incidents over the past year. Theft of personal property affected more than a million people.

“These numbers are not meant to alarm residents but to remind us that safety is a shared responsibility,” said Wimborne.

“When neighbours, community forums, and private security providers work together, we build stronger, more connected environments that create safer spaces for everyone.”

Wimborne advised that residents can reduce their risk by focusing on three simple areas of home security:

1. Make sure the property perimeter is secure, with strong walls, gates and fencing in good condition.
2. Ensure outdoor areas are well lit, as criminals tend to avoid bright spaces.
3. Test alarm systems regularly to ensure that everything functions as it should.

As Durban heads into the busy festive season, Wimborne emphasised the importance of staying alert and proactive.

“Crime prevention starts at home. Checking that your gates lock properly, outdoor lighting works, and alarms are armed can go a long way in deterring crime. When residents, security companies, and community forums work together, we create a united front that keeps our neighbourhoods safer for everyone,” said Wimborne.

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