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High-value businesses in the Welkom are under siege from an organised business burglary syndicate targeting businesses during the early hours of the weekend. According to findings by the business and residential security systems company Fidelity ADT, the syndicate targets businesses in the Welkom CBD, Riebeeckstad, and Voorspoed areas.
Charnel Hattingh, spokesperson for the security group, said the syndicate’s modus operandi is to target businesses during weekends, Friday to Sunday.
“Last week alone there were six reported incidents. We are seeing most incidents happening between 00:00 and 06:00,” said Hattingh. Following the rise in burglaries, businesses have been urged to intensify their security systems and be on guard.
“We urge all business owners and residents to test their alarms and make sure that all zones are working properly. We also advise owners to consider installing outdoor detection devices and perimeter security to reduce the chances of criminals reaching your property and gaining access. Business owners need to be more vigilant, ensure their closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are working and they remain vigilant for any suspicious activity,” said Hattingh. Business and homeowners are further advised to ensure adequate lighting for both the inside and the outside of their premises.
Hattingh said, given an increase in burglaries, it was important that business owners consider providing emergency training for their employees. “Emergency training helps to ensure that employees are properly equipped to deal with any emergencies, helping to ensure the safety of themselves and others. Consider an on-site security officer as deterrent to would-be criminals,” she said.
The following advice is for business owners:
- Identify threats and inform employees of the types of crime being committed in your area, as well as any weak points which might exist in your factory, building, or shop. This will help to ensure you make more informed security-related decisions. Promote employee involvement by asking them for input in terms of potential risks and possible solutions. Employees are more likely to take a proactive approach to crime prevention if they feel that they have been involved.
- It is important to install a functional and well-maintained alarm system to deter and detect entry to your property and a connection to an armed response unit can provide essential help in the event of an emergency. CCTV can be used to help keep track of stock as well as provide evidence in the event of a theft.
- Ensure adequate access control – Ensure the perimeter of your property is secured with a high fence or boundary wall, as well as electric fencing if necessary. Consider installing motion sensors in the ceilings and on windows. Internal doors should be fitted with a code or card access door lock to limit entry into the building. If you have a business which fronts onto a main road, consider a guard to restrict access and if anyone or anything appears suspicious, alert your security company.
