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

Just after 1:00am on the 22nd February, the Fidelity ADT Security Monitoring Centre received an alarm activation from a Morningside business premises and Armed Response Officer (ARO), Thobela Gxumisa, who was in the vicinity immediately responded and arrived at the Umgeni Road 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,” says Fidelity ADT’s district manager for KwaZulu-Natal, Vaughan Pillay.

Upon arrival, ARO Gxumisa spotted a suspect attempting to break into a container on the premises and immediately gave chase. The suspect was successfully apprehended and handed over for arrest to members of the local SAPS.

“We commend officer Gxumisa for his swift response and bravery. I encourage 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.