Local security officer foils burglar’s ‘foolproof’ plan MyZA

A burglar was apprehended thanks to the diligence of a local security officer on Tuesday 26 November.

At 18:40, ADT Security Armed Response Officer Zolani Fulani responded to an alarm activation from a business in Govan Mbeki Avenue in the Central CBD. Upon arrival, he inspected the premises but could not find anything out of order. Fulani reported to the Monitoring Centre which confirmed that it had received multiple alarm signals from the property, and the officer asked for a key-holder to be contacted to open the premises.

When the key-holder arrived, Fulani inspected the store and came across a suspect using an angle grinder to try to cut open a drop safe. The officer apprehended the man who was later handed over to the local South African Police Service for arrest.

The suspect claimed that he had entered the store during business hours and hidden away until everyone left before he damaged the alarm system and headed for the safe. He further alleged to have had a female accomplice who communicated with him via cell phone, but fled before security arrived.

As we head into the holidays, Ryan Britz, Manager of ADT Security’s Port Elizabeth Branch said it is easy to get caught up in the festivities and to let down one’s guard. He said however that it is important that employers and employees work together to keep each other, clients and property safe.

“A good start for business owners or managers is to test the alarm system, battery and other security hardware regularly. Ensure that all employees know where the panic buttons are situated and when and how to trigger the alarm. It is also important to discuss any safety issues that may arise – in the business or the neighbourhood – and to address any concerns that anyone may have.”

Britz said that if the business is protected by armed response, it would be worthwhile to introduce employees to the officers who patrol the area. He added there are a number of other practical measures that businesses can implement to enhance their security during business hours.

“Have at least two employees open and close shop. Encourage staff to greet and be aware of everyone who enters the premises, and especially anyone who loiters and does not buy anything. Position convex mirrors in a way that employees are able to observe all corners and aisles and keep storerooms locked while they are not in use.”

He said that if there is a need to make regular bank deposits, whoever does so should vary the days and times at which those trips are paid as well as the route travelled and not use marked ‘moneybags’ which will make it obvious that they contain money to be deposited.