Police urge businesses to stand guard during high crime season

WITH the festive season on the horizon, local businesses are urged to be extra vigilant and safeguard their shops.

During this period as criminals specifically target shopping centres and stores.

According to Richards Bay SAPS spokesperson, Capt Debbie Ferreira, business break-ins and robberies are the most common crime trends in the Zululand region at this time.

‘We do have a festive season plan in place. This will be aligned with the national plan rolled out by Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko,’ said Ferreira.

Boardwalk Inkwazi Shopping Centre Public Relations Officer Angelique Wright said they have teamed up with the police to beef up security over December and January.

‘Shops are also expected to conduct regular checks and ensure that their alarms and panic buttons are working properly’, Wright said.

Additional police patrols will be conducted and a satellite police station was set up inside the shopping centre on Friday and be operational until the end of January.

Business Against Crime Zululand (BAC) Manager Dave Whittaker said there will be an increase of 20 police officers for each shift.

‘Although there are extra precautionary measures in place, the public should not be complacent but always stay alert.

‘Both the SAPS and BAC are committed to making this a safe festive season for all local residents and visitors,’ Whittaker said.

Crime prevention pointers

• Do not leave cash and other valuable belongings visible to staff or the general public

• Be alert at ATMs when making withdrawals

• Ensure that vehicles are locked and secured

• When working with large sums of money, make use of cash-in-transit

• Ensure that all security services numbers are at hand.