Criminals are Back in Business: Current Crime Trends & Security Tips
Hijackings, home invasions, and business armed robberies – Durban was a hive of criminal activity with over 40 incidents reported to the Blue Security Control Centre, over the weekend. We received numerous reports of serious and violent crimes, many displaying similarities in the modus operandi in action. During this time it’s vital to stay on your toes – so we’ve compiled our top tips to help you stay ahead of the current crime trends.
Trend: Serious and violent crimes continue to rise
Serious and violent crimes can take on many forms, such as hijackings, armed robberies and home invasions. Although there is no “one-size-fits-all” security tip for avoiding crime – practicing good situational awareness is your best chance of staying out of harm’s way.
Top Tip: We advise taking a layered approach to securing your property. Starting with the outer perimeter and working your way in, ensure your outer perimeter is well lit and clear of dense bushes to avoid hijacking situations. It is also vital to ensure that your gate, garden beams, CCTV and of course your alarm system are all in good working order.
Trend: Weak perimeter barriers
In a few of the recent reports Blue received, robbers gained access to properties by digging underneath perimeter fences and breaking pedestrian gate locks.
Top Tip: Your fence is your first line of defense. It’s important to make a point of regularly checking your property’s perimeter for weak spots and to invest in good quality, five-lever security gate locks. If you are unsure of what your weak spots are, consider contacting your security company to come and assess your property for any potential risks.
Trends: Businesses targeted during stock deliveries
It’s not news that over the past few weeks, businesses have been the primary target for criminals. However, we have also noted that many of these businesses are being targeted whilst receiving deliveries and loading stock.
Top Tip: Always keep your guard up whilst stocking up. We advise keeping all property gates locked whilst receiving and loading stock and having at least one person stand watch to keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles or persons approaching the premises. Also, remember to keep your remote panic button handy in case you need back up from Blue.
Trends: Increased chance of muggings
Two reports of armed muggings came through on Friday morning and with more people exercising out on the roads, there is an increased chance of muggings occurring.
Top Tip: Plan your route before you go out and share it with a loved one, ensure that you stick to well-lit areas, and routes that take you through deserted parks and other areas. Although we are now allowed to exercise during any time of day, try to go when the sun is still out and remember that during Winter it gets darker much earlier in the day. As a precautionary measure make sure you’re always carrying your pepper spray for self-protection and your mobile app for assistance – no matter what the emergency may be.
Trend: Vehicle crime continues its upward trend
Since level 4 of lockdown commenced, vehicle crime has been on the upward trend and this past weekend saw multiple reports including hijackings, attempted vehicle theft, and theft out of a vehicle.
Top Tip: Keep your car clean, a car with valuables in plain sight only creates temptation for thieves. Limit the items you carry around with you and if you do have valuables, store them in the boot of your car out of sight of prying eyes. With the possibility of vehicle crime skyrocketing post-lockdown, stay informed with our latest vehicle crime safety tips.
As crime levels rise we urge all residents to practice caution as you go about your daily routines. Keep yours eyes peeled for our regular, current crime trend updates and stay in the loop with our top security tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.