SSOP NPC have teamed up with local security company Bhekani Abantu Security Group (BAS) to launch a unique community patrol initiative to help combat crime.

According to SSOP chairperson Leon Marinus, they work closely with local security companies in their efforts to ensure the safety of residents within neighbourhoods.

“This is an initiative that I’ve had in the back of my mind for a while, and when I mentioned it to Brandon Nevelling from BAS in passing, he wasted no time in taking it to the company’s management, who immediately put the wheels into motion, and we cannot thank him or the management of BAS enough for their support.”

The initiative consists of two branded patrol vehicles deployed within the SSOP area of operations on a 24/ 7 basis, to help increase visibility.

According to BAS general manager Michael Douman, visibility of law enforcement or security plays a significant role in decreasing crime in an area.

“Our clients pay us to respond to alarm activations,” he says.

“In our view, this initiative is not only good for the community we serve, but it will help make our jobs a little easier.

“If these visible patrols yield the results that we believe they will, it will result in a reduction in crime throughout the area and thus fewer incidents for us and our security partners in the area to respond to.”

Douman adds that these patrol vehicles are directly linked with SSOPs operations co-ordination centre (OCC), and serve the Roodepoort policing precinct.

“This is a community service and is thus there for the whole community, not just BAS clients,” he says.

“Of course, it helps that the patrollers manning the vehicles are trained in responding to emergencies, and can thus provide support in nearly any imaginable scenario.”

For more information, contact Marinus on 078 894 0987.