MONTHLY OVERVIEW
- A rebound in July to the average number of incidents and a 29% increase in crime with break-ins doubling.
- Violent crimes remained relatively constant as robbers continue to target both individuals and businesses targeting cash.
- Msasa incidents tripled in the past month (from 2 to 6), with break-ins increasing from 1 to 4.
- The presence of an alert guardian, alarms, electric fences, and gate alarm systems all proved useful in preventing break-ins when used
- An increase in the number of incidents in which employees were involved in cases of stealing from their employers- commercial and residential.
- An increase in the number of thefts and break-ins during the day2 recently in a residential estate .
- Electricity and telephone cables continue to be targeted outside premises (residential and business).
- Vehicles that were left parked overnight at both business and residential premises were also targeted for fuel, wheels, batteries, and other valuables left inside the vehicles.
NATIONWIDE CRIME
MONTHLY CRIME BREAKDOWN
*The above graphs only depict the crime incidents reported to Safeguard Security and Safeguard Alarms nationwide.
OUTLOOK
Cash remains the target- at home and work, and the sum does not seem to matter with seemingly small sums targeted in some cases. If you are holding cash, you are a target.
An increase in reports of drug and substance abuse and violent crime, with police raising serious concerns about the use of weapons. The use of an assault rifle in a recent attack on us is a further escalation.
As businesses move into the residential area’s crime is closer to home.
Thank you for using Safeguard.
The Safeguard Team
GENERAL ADVICE
Control access strictly
– no appointment no access
– no staff visitors at home
– gates locked and always closed
Get a basic alarm if you don’t have one (a small and the inexpensive internal kit is also good) and use it when you are away during the day- more crime now daytime.
Improve perimeter if you can to be a harder property to enter. Rather move potential crime down the road with a strong perimeter than installing outside sensors.
Electric fencing is a good cost-effective barrier and alarm, but poorly installed electric fencing is a false sense of security. Get it checked and make sure it works.
Vehicle security
– Do not leave your belongings in your vehicle overnight. Park in well-lit areas.
Regular stock and asset checks to minimise pilferage.
See something, say something. Always be vigilant and report suspicious activity /press your panic button for help if you are unsettled. Avoid predictable routines at home or within your business as predictability makes you an easy target.
Reduce cash held and the number of people that know that you have cash. If you hold and use cash regularly conduct background checks for staff on a regular basis – senior and junior staff!