Those who use force to achieve their aims can only be controlled by a corresponding pushback.
Despite professional rivalries, the private security companies that keep Roodepoort residents safe are uniting to form a cooperative forum to add another layer of protection against criminal elements. The committee is headed by Apcan Security’s Okkie Nel and Absolut Security’s Dean Alberts, who serve as Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson respectively.
The pair are sending an open invitation to the 35 security companies registered in Roodepoort, 18 of them armed reaction companies, to build a team that can work hand in hand with local police. Fidelity ADT and Dowry are among other companies getting involved in the initiative, but Dean stressed this is not about the companies but about forming a greater collective.
Evidence of the great potential the initiative has was evident in the three-day blitz held in the last week of January. The security forum effected almost 10 times the number of arrests secured by police in the same time frame the previous week. Illegal firearms, assault and attempted murder suspects were all caught in the 50 vehicle strong net.
Making up the remainder of the five-person committee is Dowry Operations Manager, Bruce Webster, while secretarial roles will be filled by Esme Alberts and Daleen Rajzman from Absolut. The forum will be built on adding eyes and ears to a wider collaboration with police, with a special emphasis on the common goal. Meetings will be held bi-weekly at the Roodepoort Police Station and companies are urged to contact Dean on 083 410 2851.
