Three arrested after Maitland robbery
Three suspects are in custody following an alleged break-in at a business premises on Berkley Road in Maitland last week. (The incident took place at 00h07 on Tuesday 23 August 2016.)
ADT Security’s monitoring center received an alarm signal from BM Power Centre just after midnight and dispatched armed response officer Sibingelelo Dintsi to investigate. On his arrival at the property, he was approached by a neighbor who mentioned three men that were seen on the premises.
“Officer Dintsi moved towards the business premises and noticed two men standing on the sidewalk. He also found three generators that had been removed from the back of the building,” says ADT Security’s District Manager (Cape Town South) Mr Jade Hanning.
He says officer Dintsi then noticed a third man leaving the building and apprehended him. With the assistance of another armed response officer who had arrived at the scene, the two men noticed on the sidewalk earlier were also apprehended.
“The police arrived at the property a few minutes later and took the three suspects into custody. Officer Dintsi also pointed out a car to the SAPS which was noticed close-by. On investigation, the car (which was believed to have been used by the three suspects) was found to have been reported stolen in Paarl,” says Hanning.
This case, he says, shows the importance of having an effective security and alarm system at any business premises.
“We advise business owners to test these systems regularly and to contact their private security companies for assistance if any technical problems are identified.”
Hanning suggests that business owners start with their perimeter security and work inwards.
“There are several options for perimeter security such as access control, gates, electric fencing, and beams. As a first line of defence, it is essential that perimeter security is in a good condition and checked regularly.”
CCTV systems with remote monitoring are becoming more affordable for small businesses and she recommends that owners look into this option.
“Cameras are an excellent deterrent for criminals and, with remote monitoring small businesses don’t need to house a surveillance centre on the premises.”
“It is always best to get a professional in to assess your security solution if you are unsure whether it’s adequate. These experts will be able to identify any vulnerable areas and offer the best solutions,” he says.