MONTHLY OVERVIEW
- Criminal incidents have increased by an average of 12.06% per month for the past 4 months with an increase of 4% from May. And we are up 57.14% as compared to June 2023.
- Historically we should be seeing lower crime during the winter months, however, we are experiencing the highest reported crime rates in the past year.
- 32% of all incidents targeted residential premises. This is an increase of 8% from May.
- Most criminal activity reported is between 1800 – 0500hrs. Many of these incidents occur around midnight.
- Weak perimeters are the primary concern and properties with security systems not activated or maintained.
- The number of thefts (Property stolen) at sites has decreased since May. While the number of attempted thefts (No property stolen) has increased.
- Armed robberies have remained consistent since May.
- The use of firearms remains a constant around those incidents targeting cash.
- Where there is an armed robbery, it is generally well organized with 2 – 3 times more criminals than the number of guards on site. Where sites experienced major loss was due to late detection of intruders and poor alarm coverage on site. There is also a need for higher awareness and the need to verify response as response teams arrive in cases unaware of the size of the force onsite.
MODUS OPERANDI/METHOD OF EXECUTION AND TARGETED ITEMS
HIGH RISK SITUATIONS
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CRIME STATS
OUTLOOK
As stated in the previous months report we should not expect to see crime slowing down in the months to come. Criminal incidents are targeting more residential clients in the past month, and we may continue to see this shift continue moving ahead.
With the increased road work and serious traffic congestion around Harare there is an increased chance of a smash and grab incidents occurring. Remain vigilant and do not have valuables left out in the open whilst driving.
GENERAL ADVISORY
Remain aware and place security on your checklist to review for home and business.
Avoid cash in site as it remains the biggest target.
Use your security system. In many cases not armed and needless loss. For many systems maintenance is simple and does NOT require a technician on site. Ask for advice on common repairs and get to know your alarm system. If you are having trouble using your systems give us a call for advice or have a look at the website for common user instructions. (https://www.safeguard.co.zw/faqs/) Contact us: https://www.safeguard.co.zw/contact-us/
More theft solar equipment and batteries which are usually stored outside in less protected garages and sheds. Add some early warning with a simple contact that guards against movement day or night.
If you have a CCTV system installed speak to Safeguard Alarms about allowing the control room access to your cameras for purposes of remote viewing of your site during an alarm or panic signal. This will help us understand the incident before we get there ensuring the most effective response possible.
Work on perimeter security and ensure that you have an effective barrier to deter, detect, and delay intrusion.
Light of premises is important for the safety of security teams on site and responders. Solar standalone is cost effective and needs to be deployed if you do not have reliable power on site.
The UR Fog system by Ajax is perfect for delaying intruders from accessing your safe or server room due to poor visibility upon zone activation. This is ideal for small strong rooms where you keep valuables.
Thank you for using Safeguard.
The Safeguard Team
If you want to know more about crime in your area, or would like security solutions advice, please drop us a line at info@safeguard.co.zw. You can also call Safeguard on +263 242 751395-9 the Safeguard extension 1092/1009 for assistance)- or speak to your local Safeguard manager for advice on site.
Please see more information relating to crime statistics below.
1st QUARTER 2024 CRIME STATS
National Crime Rate
The national crime rate was 1,460.6 crimes per 100,000 people, a slight uptick from 1,459.9 per 100,000 observed in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Crime Rate by Province – 4th Quarter 2023 & 1st Quarter 2024 per 100,000 Population
The above graph shows an uptick in crime rates in four provinces in the period under review.