Protect your community this festive season
Residents are urged to be vigilant and report suspicious activity to prevent crime.
As South Africans prepare for the festive season, experts warn criminals are also preparing to strike.
Communities are reminded of the importance of protecting public infrastructure and assets from vandalism and theft during the holidays.
According to Charnel Hattingh, group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity Services Group (FSG), residents must actively help to safeguard their communities.
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Hattingh cautions that the holiday season creates an opportunity for criminals to target schools, parks, and public spaces, interfering with essential services and lowering the quality of life for residents.
“The broken window syndrome theory suggests visible signs of disinterest and deterioration can incite criminal behaviour,” Hattingh explains.
“It is essential that we take pride in our communities and report suspicious activity or damage to infrastructure to the authorities.”
Hattingh emphasises the importance of partnerships between private security companies, law enforcement, and the community in preventing crime.
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“Crime is everyone’s problem, and we must work together to create safer communities. Be watchful and notify security or law enforcement of suspicious occurrences.
“We must reclaim our safety and security through active citizenry. Let us work together to make our communities a no-go zone for criminals,” Hattingh concludes.
To report a crime, contact the SAPS crime stop tip-off line at 086 0010 111 or via the MySAPS app.
