Ballito’s SNIPR security cameras need R37 500 to keep operating

The Ballito Neighbourhood Watch (BNW) needs R37 500 to continue operating the town’s number plate recognition cameras.

The SNIPR automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras have been in use since 2018 after funds were donated by RE/MAX Dolphin Coast as part of their #saferstreets campaign.

“The cameras have been a huge success and have helped crack more than 50 cases ranging from stolen vehicles to house robberies, finding illegal firearms and even assisting in finding missing people,” said BNW chairman Morne Steffens.

SNIPR works on state-of-the-art technology, reading passing number plates and referencing them within seconds against the Saps national database.

Vehicles that are flagged alert operators and the Saps which ensures a quick response time in tracking vehicles after a crime, or even preventing it before it happens.

“A huge amount of data processing technology is necessary in order to keep up with the almost 455 000 number plates that we scan monthly. That is more than 15 000 a day!” he said.

This technology comes at a cost and annual licence fees and upkeep are R37 500 for the Ballito cameras, with Salt Rock fundraising separately.

The BNW is appealing to Ballito residents for any donations, small or large, that they can afford to help keep our streets safe.

“The neighbourhood watch has been in existence for the past 25 years and continues to be the main crime prevention organisation on our little jewel of the North Coast.”

One fundraising method is to join the BNW at an annual fee of R250 per household.

This is reinvested directly into the community and BNW initiatives like the SNIPR cameras and house number painting.

Membership also has the added benefit of access to the BNW Reporter App which gives direct access to security providers in case of an emergency.

Should you wish to contribute to the SNIPR fund raiser or membership, use the QR code if payment made via Zapper or you can EFT funds for either the fundraiser or to join the BNW to the following bank account (please clearly indicate under reference whether monies are deposited for Fundraising or Membership) or visit Facebook or their website for more information: www.ballitonw.org.za

Standard Bank

Account No. 034513159

Branch Code 040027

Ref. Your name OR Fundraiser