After the installation of 12 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in and around Estcourt, Umtshezi Municipality says there has been a number of crimes that were prevented.

Feedback from Acting Municipal Manager Elphas Dladla indicates that the new digital surveillance cameras are more sophisticated and are more advantageous than the previous analogue cameras.

Without revealing too much information, Mr Dladla said that 12 cameras have been installed as part of phase one. The placement is determined by hot spots where crimes are often reported. Additional staff members have been employed in the camera room, which is off-limits to the public.

“The monitoring system has been updated and the centre upgraded. Staff is also undergoing extensive training by the service provider,” said Mr Dladla.

He added that the CCTV system has further phases, which will cover the broader Umtshezi area.