Parkmore logs 363 open gates and 33 property-related crimes

Security providers and community leaders have highlighted shifting crime trends and operational challenges in Parkmore, encouraging locals to take an active role in protecting their neighbourhood.

The call was made during the Parkmore Community Association’s (PCA) annual general meeting on October 28, where 24/7 Security head of armed reaction Grant Moulder presented an overview of the security company’s activities and crime statistics over the past year.

Moulder said the company’s primary objectives remained preventing crime wherever possible, responding quickly to incidents and maintaining a visible security presence throughout Parkmore.

He revealed that security officers attended to 363 open-gate incidents during the reporting period, highlighting how seemingly minor security oversights could create opportunities for criminals.

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“That’s a substantial number, and although checking an open gate might seem like a small task, it takes the officer away from patrolling the area,” he said.

Vulnerabilities and patterns

The security report also recorded 33 property-related crime incidents, including burglaries, attempted burglaries, theft and attempted theft.

According to Moulder, although the figures were relatively low compared with some other areas, property-related crime remained one of Parkmore’s biggest security concerns.

He cautioned residents against overlooking basic security measures, explaining that malfunctioning gates, properties without electric fencing or alarm systems, and exposed vehicles could make homes vulnerable.

“An unsecured gate or a vehicle left exposed is a problem. People have to get out of their car, open the gate and close the gate. Those types of things actually contribute to potential crime that can happen in the area. The criminals are looking for opportunities.”

He added that crime figures fluctuated from month to month, with criminal groups sometimes shifting their activities between neighbourhoods.

Residents were encouraged to look beyond individual monthly statistics and understand that crime patterns could change depending on criminal activity and emerging trends.

“We continue monitoring intelligence, reviewing incidents, and adjusting our patrols accordingly,” he said, adding that the company could deploy its special operations teams to help stabilise the situation where increased criminal activity was identified.

He emphasised that effective security required cooperation between service providers and residents, urging community members to report suspicious activity through the relevant WhatsApp groups or security contact numbers.

With the festive season approaching and many residents preparing to travel, Moulder also encouraged homeowners to ensure their gates were functioning properly and alarm systems were in good working order.

A shared community responsibility

PCA chairperson Anthony Gardner echoed the importance of collective responsibility, saying the association’s AGM provided an opportunity to discuss its future vision, strategy and how it could operate more effectively as a community organisation.

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As the newly appointed chairperson, Gardner said bringing residents together and strengthening the association remained among his key priorities.

“One of our biggest challenges or biggest objectives is security and making sure that our community is safe and making sure that the organisation is run correctly,” he said.

Gardner stressed that residents’ safety would remain the association’s foremost concern, adding that the PCA wanted to strengthen its relationships with security providers, local authorities, community policing structures and residents.

“Safety is a shared responsibility. The way I see it is that our WhatsApp groups are our ecosystem. We look after each other, whether it’s by promoting a local company or advising on potential dangers. The information we share on these groups is valuable to everyone,” he said.

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