Business robberies increasing around Pretoria – security companies

Security company Fidelity ADT has cautioned business owners to be vigilant as business robberies have escalated in areas across Pretoria, with Centurion, Olievenhoutbosch, Eldoraigne, and Gezina being the most affected.

Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh said the recent spate of break-ins has seen criminals targeting businesses by breaking through roofs, compromising alarm systems and gaining unauthorised access.

“In many of these incidents, the alarm panel or antenna is accessed through the roof, and in some cases, these components are even installed in the roof space.”

She said this method allows thieves to disable the alarm systems, preventing alerts from reaching the control room and leaving businesses vulnerable to theft.

To combat this rising threat, Hattingh urges business owners to consider installing off-site monitoring services, which can decrease the likelihood of criminals accessing their properties and roofs.

“It’s crucial to ask your security provider about multi-camera alarm-activated monitoring, which is managed by skilled operators in an off-site monitoring centre,” she said.

She advised the installation of cameras in roof spaces, which can serve as a deterrent and help catch intruders in the act.

Hattingh added that outdoor detection beams can also be strategically placed around properties to trigger the alarms before criminals can breach the premises.

For those considering enhanced perimeter security, she cautioned that the selection and installation of wall-top electric fences must be approached with care.

“The effectiveness of these fences can be compromised if the wrong type is chosen or if installation is done incorrectly. Choosing the correct installer is also very crucial,” she said.

She encouraged business owners to obtain multiple quotes and consult a qualified expert to draft a technical specification for the fence.

“This specification should cover critical factors including wiring, structure, height, the number of zones required, and the lifespan of the fence.”

Hattingh said the specification should then be sent to electric fence installers operating in the area for them to compare pricing, quality, and advice.

She said regular maintenance and checks of security systems are also crucial.

“Please take a walk around your property and look for possible access points to your property and roof.

“If you suspect there are vulnerable areas, don’t hesitate to call in a security expert to assess and provide solutions,” added Hattingh.

Monitor Net security spokesperson JP Le Roux confirmed they have responded to business robbery incidents in Centurion, including a burglary at Wholesale Fencing on Jakaranda Street in Hennopspark on October 22.

Le Roux said a security officer spotted a suspicious person walking out of the store.

“The officer noticed the suspect exiting the store with a laptop and approached him for questioning.”

He said the suspect attempted to flee, but his efforts were thwarted when the officer quickly apprehended him.

“Further investigations revealed that the laptop was stolen,” he added.

Le Roux said another suspect was arrested after attempting to break into a business property at Die Hoewes on October 14.

“A local petrol attendant noticed the crime and intervened.”

He said in the resulting tussle, the suspect stabbed the petrol attendant and then fled the scene.

“We responded quickly to the scene after receiving a tip-off.”

He said after searching around the areas nearby, the suspect was found and arrested.

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