Local response officers praised for speedy responses

AN uMhlanga resident thanked local security officers for their speedy response and assistance during two incidents at her home recently.

On the morning of Monday, 10 February, Marietta Quinn pressed a panic button after her tenant, who lives in a granny flat on the premises, called to tell her that a suspect had opened her window and was trying to break in.

ADT Security armed response officer, Joel Ntshangase, was dispatched and arrived at the address within two minutes. He inspected the property and discovered that the suspect had fled over the perimeter wall.

Five days later at about 4.30am the Quinn household activated their panic alarm again after they had heard a noise, investigated and saw three suspects run across their property, then scale the garden wall to escape.

Armed response officers, Kevin Govender and Joel Ntshangase responded and when they inspected the property they found that the suspects had tried to force open the lounge door with a crowbar.

Fortunately no access was gained and no items were stolen. The officers reported this to the monitoring centre who contacted the South African Police Service.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the officers for their rapid response and assistance in both instances. In changing shifts, Khoza Siboniso Mbuso, the day shift officer, came to introduce himself and assured us he’d be patrolling our area,” Quinn said.

“My husband and I were so impressed when Kevin and Joel returned on Saturday evening and assured us of constant patrols. We both felt at ease, knowing that we could rest comfortably,” she added.

Martin Kriel, managing director of ADT Security east coast region, had the following advice: “Should you come across a suspect on your property, remain calm and immediately contact your security service provider or the SAPS. Never confront them or attempt to capture the suspects because they may be armed and dangerous.”