Ballito neighbourhood watch takes to the streets to reduce holiday crime

Unwilling to allow criminals to target Ballito this Christmas, the members of the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch (BNW) will do night patrols until the end of January and potentially longer if they prove effective.

BNW chairperson Morne Steffens said crime traditionally spiked over the festive season.

This, coupled with a high number of vehicle thefts in recent months, had motivated them to take action.

“We want to create a presence that will hopefully deter potential thieves from continuing with their plans and also be extra eyes and ears on the ground to aid Saps and the security companies that work in partnership with the BNW,” said Steffens.

The patrols are done by Ballito residents who are volunteers and BNW and Ward 6 CPF will coordinate the patrol roster. 

“The patrollers’ aim is to observe and report to 3 proactive security providers who have partnered with us. This is solely to complement the service of security companies and Saps as it is not possible for them to have a presence everywhere. We recognise that Saps Umhlali has a massive area to cover and do not always have the necessary resources to do night patrols in Ballito.”

He said the patrols were for the Ballito residential node of Ward 6 and part of Ward 21 south of Ballito Drive.

Steffens said Ballito was set for a bumper Christmas with most accommodation already booked. 

Residents and holidaymakers were often guilty of not arming their alarms at night and leaving windows open with valuables in sight and in reach. 

He said the success of the patrols depends on the number of volunteers to make it sustainable.

“If any resident wants to volunteer, they can send their name, surname, street address and cell number to secretary@ballitonw.org.za to join the patrol groups.

“We always aim to have 2 members per vehicle per shift and not every person is keen to go out and do patrols, we are also looking for residents that are prepared to monitor the cameras at night or even just look out of the window facing the road and to alert us if they see any suspicious people on the streets.

Further, the BNW identifies several projects every year to improve safety and security, which of course cost money. 

To join the BNW (patrols are not compulsory) to help fund these projects at an annual membership cost of R250 per family per year (up to 3 members), email secretary@ballitonw.org.za or visit ballitonw.org.za.