A community radio network credited with improving emergency communication across northern Pretoria has recorded one of its biggest successes after helping co-ordinate the rescue of two kidnapping victims following a hijacking in Karen Park.
Residents reported a hijacking and kidnapping to Prosec, which immediately relayed the information over the AfriForum Noord van die Berg (North of the Mountain) radio network.
The alert was received by GAC Risk Solutions, a vehicle theft recovery specialist, which activated its response teams.
An operation involving GAC Risk Solutions, Maximum Security and other security partners followed the suspects as they fled towards Soshanguve.
The operation ended with the safe rescue of both kidnapping victims, the recovery of the hijacked vehicle, the recovery of a second stolen vehicle, the arrest of two suspects, and the seizure of three firearms.
According to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, two suspects were arrested and will face charges relating to the hijacking, kidnapping, and the illegal possession of firearms.
He confirmed that police investigations are continuing as detectives work to determine whether the recovered firearms may be linked to other crimes.
Van Dyk also welcomed the co-operation between community structures, private security companies, and the police.
“Information shared timeously by community members and security partners plays an important role in supporting police investigations and responding to serious crimes.
“We encourage residents to continue reporting suspicious activities as soon as possible,” he said.
AfriForum district co-ordinator Llewellyn Hemmens said, “When emergencies occur, every second matters. The radio network allows residents, neighbourhood watches, security companies and emergency responders to communicate instantly without relying on cellphone networks.
“This successful rescue once again shows how effective co-ordinated communication can be in protecting our communities,” said Hemmens.
AfriForum media representative Ruan Janse van Vuuren said the network continues to prove its value during serious incidents.
“This is another example of how strong partnerships between residents, security companies and emergency responders can make a real difference.
“The rapid sharing of information allowed multiple role players to respond immediately, ultimately contributing to the successful rescue of the victims,” he said.
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