Garsfontein CPF, security companies weigh in on plans to secure neighbourhood this festive season
The CPF will be focusing on joint operations with SAPS and security companies to conduct high-visibility patrols in hotspot areas as well as have stationary checkpoints at key intersections to deter criminal activity.
Garsfontein Community Policing Forum (CPF) is on high alert this festive season and promises to intensify visibility and patrols to deal with crime in neighbourhoods.
According to security teams, historically, this time of year usually sees an increase in opportunistic crimes.
They referred to individuals taking advantage of the holiday atmosphere, people being away from their homes and their perceived relaxed security.
CPF chairperson Aris Ruyter said they recognised the safety challenges that arise during the festive season as many residents leave their homes to travel, leaving neighbourhoods vulnerable.
“Our plan this year is to focus on collaboration, visibility, and community awareness to ensure safety remains a priority during this period,” he said.
Ruyter said the CPF plans to enhance patrol co-ordination.
“We will work closely with security companies to align patrol schedules and ensure continuous coverage in vulnerable areas. Vetted patrollers will share live locations for better co-ordination and faster responses,” he said.
Ruyter added that increased visibility will deter crime across the east of Pretoria.
He said they will have “joint operations with SAPS and security companies to conduct high-visibility patrols in hotspot areas as well as have stationary checkpoints at key intersections to deter criminal activity”.
Ruyter said real-time communication was effective in ensuring escalation of incidents from sector WhatsApp groups to response teams, including SAPS and security stakeholders.
“Using two-way radios to co-ordinate operational efforts effectively and strengthening our collaboration with the police and private security companies, we aim to create a safer community for everyone, even while many are away.”
He said patrols at hotspot areas, such as shopping malls, restaurants, churches and halls will be implemented to deter crime such as car theft and theft out of motor vehicles.
The recent second quarter crime stats released by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu last week revealed that the Garsfontein station didn’t feature among the top 30 crime-plagued stations in the country like it used to.
However, it is still struggling with other serious crimes.
Garsfontein used to be a hotspot for theft of motor vehicles and motorcycles for the previous quarters, however in the July –September period the station saw a decline of 20.7%.
The station also recorded a 12-count decline in robberies at residential premises with eight cases.
It has recorded a decrease in burglary at non-residential premises, at 10 counts lower than the same period last year.
Community-reported serious crime is still a big issue for Garsfontein, as it recorded 879 cases compared to the 853 cases from July-September 2023.
Commercial crime grew by 11.6% with 221 recorded cases from the 198 cases of the same period last year.
Murder cases have increased by four counts this quarter compared to one in July-September 2023.
Common robberies have also increased by seven counts with 19 cases from the 12 cases of the same quarter last year.
Dana Bloem, CEO of CSI Security, said the company is taking proactive measures to ensure clients and residents feel safe.
He said the company is indeed on high alert as this time of year opportunistic crimes arise and individuals take advantage of the holiday atmosphere and perceived relaxed security.
CSI will be focusing on these crime prevention measures:
– Increased patrols in high-risk areas.
– Enhance monitoring of CCTV cameras.
– Conduct regular security checks on client properties.
– Provide additional support to our 24/7 control room.
Bloem urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to secure their properties.
“Simple measures such as locking doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight, and reporting suspicious activity can go a long way in preventing crimes.”
As residents prepare to travel during the festive season, the CPF urges everyone to take proactive steps to ensure their safety and the security of their homes.
Before Leaving Home:
Secure your property:
– Install timers for lights to create the appearance of someone being home.
– Inform your neighbours or CPF sector patrollers of your travel plans for additional oversight.
– Limit public posts: Avoid announcing your holiday plans on social media.
– Check locks and alarms: Test all locks, gates, and alarm systems to ensure they are functioning.
While on the Road:
Stay Alert:
– Avoid driving late at night or in unfamiliar areas.
– Use GPS to plan routes and stick to main roads.
– Plan rest stops: Avoid stopping in isolated areas; use well-lit and populated rest areas instead.
– Emergency numbers: Keep local emergency contacts readily available.
At Your Destination:
– Stay vigilant: Even on holiday, avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep valuables out of sight.
– Use trusted services: Only use verified transport and accommodation providers.
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