Criminals now stealing security beams

Security company Fidelity ADT has cautioned locals to be vigilant as beam theft incidents have escalated in Pretoria.

Beams are security devices that detect motion.

According to Fidelity, Brooklyn, Moreleta Park, and Centurion have registered an increase in the theft of security devices.

Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh said they received multiple reports from homeowners regarding stolen beams.

She revealed that in the past week, they received seven reports of missing beams.

“We want to alert all residents and ensure security measures are ramped up,” said Hattingh.

Hattingh urged residents to strengthen their home defences by inspecting and enhancing their perimeter and house security, including trimming all overgrown trees or bushes near the perimeter wall and ensuring gates are secure with locks and motorised controls.

She added that it’s crucial to regularly test alarm systems and panic buttons during off-peak hours to ensure they function properly.

“Criminals often target outdoor detection beams, not only to make it easier for them to break into the home later but also to sell them for some extra cash,” she said.

“Homeowners can instal a bracket over their beam to delay criminals,” Hattingh advised.

She said that locals must always be certain that their alarms are activated, especially their outdoor beams.

“These outdoor beams act as an early warning detection system and offer valuable time to security companies responding to your emergency.”

She suggested the following safety guidelines:

– Always arm your alarm, especially your outdoor beams when you are at home

– Make sure to test your alarm and beams regularly to pick up if any of them is faulty

– Report stolen beams or other small items to police

– Make sure to keep yourself safe by using your alarm all the time

– If you have outdoor pets, or if something is setting off your alarm beams frequently make sure to check what is causing the issue. It could be a tree blowing in the wind or rodents and insects.

“Let’s all be vigilant and work together to bring these incidents to an end,” she said.

The Monitor Net security company in Centurion confirmed they have also received reports of stolen beams.

Spokesperson JP Le Roux said they advised residents to purchase brackets to put over the beam.

“The bracket makes it hard for criminals to steal the beams,” said Le Roux.

Le Roux said criminals use screwdrivers to loosen any visible beam and steal them.

He added that they are working closely with law enforcement to catch the culprits.

Le Roux said they are currently busy with an investigation.

CSI Senior Operations manager Kamershan Reddy said they have not received any report of stolen beams in the east.

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