Thefts of security beams, gate motors in Centurion again on the rise
While these thefts continue to be a problem, residents in Centurion are urged to take action to safeguard their homes.
Centurion has once again experienced a troubling increase in theft, outdoor detection beams and gate motors being the primary targets.
Security companies operating in the area have raised concern and are urging residents to take proactive measures to safeguard their properties.
Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh said the affected areas in Pretoria include Waterkloof Glen, Centurion, the Moot, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
“We have received numerous reports from homeowners stating that their outdoor detection beams have been stolen.”
She explained this is often carried out by opportunistic criminals who move between different areas, targeting homes where outdoor beams are left unarmed.
“These criminals strike at random times.
“They know that many homeowners do not activate their outdoor beams when they are home.
“This makes them easy pickings,” she said.
Hattingh emphasised the importance of perimeter security.
“Residents are advised to cut back any trees or bushes around your perimeter wall and make sure your gate has security measures in place, such as locks on the motor.
“It is also a good idea to test your alarms and panic buttons to make sure all are in good working order,” added Hattingh.
She said that testing should be done outside peak times.
Hattingh also recommended installing anti-theft brackets over outdoor beams to delay criminals and ensure these devices remain functional as early warning systems.
Monitor Net spokesperson JP Le Roux noted that theft of outdoor beams and gate motors is a widespread issue.
“There is an anti-theft bracket that can be purchased to stop the theft of these items,” said Le Roux.
He urged homeowners to invest in these brackets as a preventative measure, as thefts are not confined to specific areas or times of day, making vigilance crucial.
“It’s basically all over, and Monitor Net has increased patrols to address the issue.”
Celine Davis of Seek Security shared that the security company has also stepped up efforts to combat these thefts in Centurion.
“We have started increasing patrols in the Centurion area, with many of our teams patrolling on foot,” Davis said.
She highlighted the use of advanced technology, such as sniper cameras and license plate recognition (LPR) systems to track and identify potential thieves.
Davis advised homeowners to link their security systems to reputable security companies with a strong presence in the area.
“A good security company with lots of cars and patrols can make a big difference,” she added.
Residents expressed concern and shared the measures they are taking to protect their homes.
Jane Muller, a resident of Rooihuiskraal, said the increase in these kinds of thefts is worrying.
“We’ve installed a high-quality alarm system and outdoor beams, and we make sure to activate them every night.
“I think we need more visible security patrols in the area, as that would help with this kind of problem.”
Another resident, Peter van Niekerk, shared similar sentiments.
“I’ve added more locks to our gate motor, but I still feel uneasy, especially since these criminals seem to strike at random times,” he said.
Niekerk suggested that community collaboration and neighbourhood watch programmes could help address the issue.
“We need to work together and share information to stay ahead of these criminals,” he added.
Fidelity ADT has provided the following safety tips to help residents protect their homes:
– Always arm your alarm, especially outdoor beams, even when you’re at home.
– Test your alarm and beams regularly to ensure they are working properly.
– Report stolen beams or other small items to the police promptly.
– Use anti-theft brackets to secure outdoor beams and gate motors.
– Investigate frequent false alarms, as they could be caused by environmental factors or tampering.
Hattingh urged residents to remain vigilant and work together to bring these incidents to an end.
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