What was once an occasional property crime has become a growing concern across Fairland, Northcliff, Linden and surrounding suburbs. where gate motor thefts are increasingly leaving residents frustrated, vulnerable and out of pocket.

According to security companies and police, organised criminal groups have turned gate motor theft into a profitable business, targeting homes during the early hours of the morning and removing motors in a matter of seconds. Managing director of Beagle Watch, Andre Aiton, described the situation as being ‘absolutely out of control’, with multiple syndicates operating across northern Johannesburg suburbs. “These thefts mainly occur in the early hours of the morning with suspects operating in various vehicles,” said Aiton.

Read more: Protect your motor gate from theft

He explained that gate motors have become attractive targets. “It is an easy means of generating income, either through spare parts or second-hand gate installations with 100% profits on the work carried out.”

Aiton added that thieves often select properties where gate motors are clearly visible from the street and can be accessed quickly. In many cases, a tool is all that is needed. “A single crowbar under the base plate and the entire motor can be removed in seconds.”

The problem is not limited to one suburb. Aiton said incidents are being reported across a wide range of areas and that criminals have become increasingly brazen, sometimes operating directly in front of CCTV cameras. The consequences extend beyond the theft itself. In some cases, stolen gate motors leave gates standing open for the remainder of the night, increasing the risk of further crimes.

Sergeant Takalani Sibiya of Linden Police Station confirmed that police have seen a noticeable increase in gate motor thefts every week. She identified Malanshof, Fontainebleau, Blairgowrie, Linden, Windsor East and Windsor West among the areas experiencing higher numbers of incidents.

Sibiya suspect that criminals often scout properties during the day before returning later to commit the thefts, frequently using high-performance vehicles as getaway cars.

Also read: Is your gate motor safe?

The financial impact on homeowners can be substantial. According to Aiton, replacing a stolen gate motor can cost between R8 000 and R15 000, with many residents relying on insurance claims that may ultimately lead to higher premiums.
As syndicates continue targeting properties across the city, police and private security companies are increasing patrols and using technology-driven operations in an effort to curb these crimes.

Parkview CPF recommend the following in securing your gate motor:

• Use anti-theft brackets
• Install tamper-sensitive alarms
• Fitting anti-lift brackets
• Ensure properties remain well-lit.

Residents are also encouraged to report thefts immediately to police, notify their security companies and alert neighbourhood watch groups.

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