Theft of gate motors have become a growing concern in Gauteng. Criminals are targeting homes across Johannesburg, some of the areas targeted are Northcliff, Bergbron in Greenside, Florida Glen, Fairlands, Helderkruin in the West Rand, and Observatory in Houghton. In the past week we have had multiple reports of stolen gate motors in these areas.
Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications at Fidelity ADT says this is a growing trend in the area. She says there is a thriving black market for gate motor parts. “Stolen gate motors are either stripped down and its various components (batteries, gearboxes, etc.) sold individually or they are sold as complete units to unsuspecting homeowners by these “access automation bandits” as they are often referred to.” She says there is also a worrying trend of suspects deactivating the gate motor and accessing the property while on manual override.
Here are some useful tips for safeguarding your gate motor against theft and your property against a home invasion:
- Ensure that your gate motor is secured in a steel casing or bracket which is locked at all times. Suspects often just place their hands through the gate if your gate motor is unsecured and installed right next to a “palisade-type” gate”. They are then able to switch the gate to manual and access your property
- Consider installing 180-degree beams that will monitor your gate
- Make use of a good quality lock to secure the motor’s theft-resistant cage. Preferably opt for an insurance-rated padlock
- Install adequate anti-lift brackets and welding a piece of flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards
- Combine mechanical anti-theft systems, such as traditional theft-resistant cages, with electronic notification devices, for example sound bombs and GSM units which are able to send notifications to users when the device’s inputs are triggered.
“Your electric gate should be one of the first perimeter deterrents to protect you from crime. Activate early-warning systems such as garden beams and/or electric fencing and ensure these are linked to armed response. We need to do our bit to reduce crime by making it harder for the criminals. Safeguard your gate motors!” concludes Hattingh.
