A neighbourhood team joined forces with several security organisations in a co-ordinated crime-prevention operation to increase visibility and tackle emerging crime hotspots across the north of Pretoria.

The operation brought together AfriForum Noord van die Berg (North of the Mountain), AfriForum Brits, Prosec Citr 247 Maximum Security and Secra Security, deploying dog units to assist with the patrols.

The sweep focused on several known problem areas, including the old Hillside golf course, the Johan Koen Bird Sanctuary and the stormwater pipes in the area.

Teams also targeted vacant land between Willem Cruywagen and Main streets, next to the Akasia golf course, where nearby properties have reportedly experienced ongoing problems with cable theft.

According to the organisation, teams focused their efforts on areas identified as red areas where cable theft has recently started increasing again.

During the sweep, patrol teams reportedly discovered equipment believed to be used in cable theft, as well as equipment suspected to be associated with housebreakings.

The items were found inside one of the area’s stormwater pipes.

Branch chairperson Ruan Janse van Vuuren said the operation demonstrated the importance of collaboration between communities and private security companies.

“The aim is to show criminals that we are an active community and that crime has no place in our communities,” said Janse van Vuuren.

The operation also made use of a newly established radio network, which helped participating teams maintain communication while operating across large areas.

According to AfriForum, the radio network enabled teams to remain in contact with one another throughout the operation, particularly where patrol groups were spread over different locations.

The deployment of multiple dog units was also intended to strengthen the teams’ ability to search areas and identify possible evidence linked to criminal activity.

Janse van Vuuren said the co-operation between community members and security companies was encouraging, particularly because of the shared commitment to improving safety.

“It is good to see how not only the community, but also every security company involved, has a passion and love for the community and its safety,” he said.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by community safety structures to increase visibility and deter criminal activity before it escalates.

AfriForum Noord van die Berg has encouraged residents to become involved in community safety initiatives and work alongside existing structures to help secure their neighbourhoods.

The organisation said stronger participation from residents can contribute to a more visible and active community presence, while co-operation between security companies and community structures can improve communication and response capabilities.

Janse van Vuuren urged residents to play an active role in the safety of their communities, adding that there is an opportunity for everyone to contribute.

The organisation said it intends to continue working with security partners and community members to maintain visibility in areas vulnerable to crime and to send a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated.

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