The Mayville South African Police Service (SAPS) recently took custody of a suspected thief thanks to the rapid response of a local security company.

In the evening of the 25th August, the Fidelity ADT Security Monitoring Centre received an alarm activation from a Morningside home after the garage beam was activated and immediately dispatched Armed Response Officers, Prince Mbhele and Lindelani Zikhali, who arrived at the Chapel Street 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. In addition, and in line with regulations to control and prevent the spread of the coronavirus we have provided all our staff with the necessary PPE equipment to ensure the safety of both our employees and customers,” explains Fidelity ADT’s District Manager for KwaZulu-Natal, Vaughan Pillay.”

Upon arrival, the officers conducted a thorough search of the property and noticed that the electric fence at the back of the property had been tampered with and cut. They soon spotted a suspect attempting to flee and immediately gave chase. The suspect was successfully apprehended and handed over for arrest to members of the Mayville SAPS.

“We commend officers Mbhele and Zikhali for their swift response and bravery. I encourage both residents and businesses 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,” Pillay concluded.