October 23, 2007
By Millicent Kgowedi
WITH the festive season fast approaching, the City is educating residents in crime fighting and improving their safety. According to the police, crime levels increase over Christmas, with businesses particularly vulnerable to robbery.
In light of this, businesses in four areas - Norwood's Grant Avenue, Louis Botha Drive in Orange Groove, Linksfield and Balfour Park Shopping Centre – were visited by City officials on Friday, 19 October as part of Joburg's plan to raise safety awareness.
The City spearheaded the safety campaign, working in partnership with the metro police and the Norwood branch of the South African Police Service (SAPS). Jabu Dhlamini, the City's safety campaign programme co-ordinator, said it was important to educate business people about the dangers of crime.
"There is always something they can do for themselves … to ensure that they don't become victims of crime."
Safety officials visited business along Grant Avenue in Norwood
Dhlamini said that most of the robberies happened out of pure negligence. "Robbers on rare occasions attack safe and secure businesses. They always look for those that are less careful."
Business owners generally responded positively to the campaign and most took the time to listen to the short presentations made by metro police officers, the SAPS and City officials. They also took the opportunity to question the police about the effectiveness of calling officers and reports of bribery.
"Crime is never one-sided," said Captain Marcel Alvis, of Norwood police station.
"The minute an ordinary citizen hands over a bribe to an officer, he or she has … committed a serious offence. Communities should take charge, refuse to give bribes and never allow offers to harass them and abuse their powers. Cases like that should be taken up with the station commander because no-one is above the law, not even us."
Some of the safety tips given by officers included joining local business forums to deal with problems collectively; reporting suspicious activity; ensuring that all customers have left the premises before locking up; keeping the entrance doors locked; and activating alarm systems when leaving the premises.
"It's unfortunate that some people are still in doubt [about calling] the 10111 number, but we are telling people today not to hesitate but to dial that number because we respond to it. It is still the most effective number," Alvis said.
He encouraged businesses to use drop safes regularly and not to discuss the business with staff members, because most of the robbers were linked to people working at the company.
"Finances shouldn't be discussed with everybody. Also, bear in mind not to make banking methods a routine; go to different banks at different times."
Business owners and staff were pleased with the visits. "I am very happy that [such] awareness was brought to my area," said Mimi Ndlovu, a paralegal at Gololo Attorneys. "Giving us these safety tips is such a good gesture."
Carol Hind, the owner of Angels and Antiques, also praised Norwood police officers for the relationship they have with the community. "I can be quoted on this one because I know the work that they have been doing for us. They are fast, efficient, smart and are always kind and caring."
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