The HQuad neighbourhood watch launched a partnership with ADT Security on Thursday evening in 13th Street in Homevale to fight crime and prevent looting in Homestead, Homevalley, Homelite and Homevale.
The HQuad neighbourhood watch launched a partnership with ADT Security on Thursday evening in 13th Street in Homevale to fight crime and prevent looting in Homestead, Homevalley, Homelite and Homevale.
HQuad secretary Fernando Visagie said the initiative would swiftly address increasing levels of crime in the area.
“We noticed a resurgence of criminal activities and drug related crimes including housebreaking, robberies and theft.
“We have extended our patrols to other areas including the CBD and Squarehill Park. We are also working in conjunction with other neighbourhood watches. Drug abuse is often a precursor to violent behaviour.”
He stated that searches were conducted after the curfew for dangerous weapons, drugs and stolen goods.
“If we find a person in possession of sharp objects, drugs or suspected stolen property we will take the person to the police station and lay charges against them.”
Visagie added that the neighbourhood watch, Operation Wanya Tsotsi and Saamstaan Kimberley had assisted in preventing incidents of looting and rioting in July.
“We jointly managed to prevent chaos from descending upon the town. A bottle store was targeted on three occasions and we managed to apprehend some suspects who were caught in possession of alcohol.”
ADT Security branch manager Campbell Hobbs on Friday said they would offer support to HQuad by accompanying them on patrols.
“Members of the neighbourhood watch often go out alone and are exposed to dangerous elements.
“We will assist with increased visibility and offer armed response services in dangerous situations. We handed out pepper spray for extra protection at the launch. We regard this initiative as a form of crime prevention and intend to expand our operations to provide support to other neighbourhood watches in the city. We will not charge for our services in an effort to safeguard the rights of residents.”
Hobbs indicated that they would set up street cameras in different areas.
“The cameras are linked to a national database and will readily detect criminal activity and will be able to trace stolen vehicles. We also work closely with the police and community policing forums.”
