Gate motor black market in Centurion
'Stolen gate motors are often stripped and the components sold individually.'
A local security company believes there is a thriving black market for gate-motor parts.
“Stolen gate motors are often stripped and the components sold individually,” said Fidelity ADT district manager Leon Muller.
Centurion residents are therefore urged to seriously consider the security of their gate motors and beams as criminals have targeted them recently, he said.
This as security firm had noted an increase in gate motor thefts or damage in Centurion and surrounding areas.
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“Alternatively they are sold as complete units to unsuspecting homeowners by these ‘access automation bandits’ as they are often referred to.”
Muller said there was also a worrying trend where suspects deactivated the motor and then manually override it to gain access to the property.
He urged residents to ensure their gate motor was secure in a locked steel casing or bracket at all times.
“Suspects often just place their hands through the gate to switch the motor to manual then access your property.”
“Make use of a good quality lock to secure the motor’s theft-resistant cage. Preferably opt for an insurance-rated padlock.”
“Install adequate anti-lift brackets and consider welding a piece of flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards.”
ALSO READ: Gate motor, security beams thieves targeting Wierdabrug homes
Muller suggests combining mechanical anti-theft systems, such as traditional theft-resistant cages, with electronic notification devices which are able to send notifications to users when the device’s inputs are triggered.
“Your electric gate should be one of the first perimeter deterrents to protect you from crime,” he said.
“We all need to do our bit to reduce crime by making it harder for the criminals.”
Police previously urged residents to report all gate motor thefts, even attempts, to their local police station.
This will help police in identifying theft hot spots and knowing where to carry out preventative operations.
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