The Pietermaritzburg South African Police Service (SAPS) recently took custody of a suspected thief thanks to the rapid response of a local security company.
Just before 3h00 on the 13th September, tenants at a church in Calvery Place activated their panic alarm after hearing noises coming from the church building. The Fidelity ADT Security Control Room immediately dispatched Armed Response Officers (ARO), Jared Padayachy and Wilson Zondi, who arrived at the property within minutes.
“All our ARO’s are equipped with in-vehicle tablet devices which enable them to receive auto dispatch signals as soon as a customer’s alarm is activated, enhancing response times. In any emergency situation we are all aware that time is of the essence and we therefore ensure that all our responses are done in an effective and efficient manner,” says Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.
ARO Padayachy and Zondi investigated and soon came across the suspect inside the premises. The suspect was apprehended and handed over for arrest to members of the Mountain Rise SAPS. Further investigation revealed that the suspect had jumped over the rear wall, climbed the burglar gate up a wall and had entered through a window. He had attempted to steal two amplifiers but was apprehended before being able to flee.
“We commend our officers for their swift response and bravery. I encourage business owners and residents to conduct regular security assessments in order to resolve any vulnerable or unprotected areas to deter opportunistic criminals. Security technologies such as CCTV, outdoor beams and roof passives are often used to proactively prevent crime,” Hattingh concluded.
