SAPS, security must work together

THERE seems to be an increase in hijackings and home invasions in the eThekwini regions, especially in the Havenside, Mobeni Heights and Bayview suburbs of Chatsworth.

There are solutions to bring down these acts of criminality, if SAPS and its crime intelligence unit and private security companies work together.

When most of these hijackings take place, especially in Chatsworth, the perpetrators drive towards Lamontville or uMlazi. It seems that some residents of these townships and some SAPS members know where these hijacked vehicles are located in these townships, but nothing gets done to arrest the culprits.

If the SAPS and private security companies come together and share resources, this will definitely assist to bring down these criminal acts.

Private security companies use advanced CCTV cameras in some areas, using a number plate recognition system. This system should immediately notify SAPS, community police forums and all private security companies within that area to be on the lookout for false plates or stolen vehicles, which hijackers mainly use in their criminal acts. These cameras should be strategically positioned to get the maximum benefit. Drones can also be used to monitor these hijackers.

My second idea is to station SAPS and private security personnel at strategic exit points, which are not many, especially in the Chatsworth area. These points should be policed 24/7 and law enforcement will be in a position to apprehend these criminals.

Unfortunately these criminals target townships like uMlazi, KwaMashu and Lamontville as their hideouts. The SAPS and the security cluster need to intensify their raids in these hot spots.

Many people have no faith in the police, but it is about time the majority of SAPS members who are honest and want to fight crime change this narrative and make SAPS shine once again. YUGEN MOODLEY |