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

The Fidelity ADT Security Control Room recently received an alarm activation from a vacant Margate holiday home and immediately dispatched Armed Response Officer (ARO), Sakhile Ncama, who arrived at the Johnny Ralph Crescent 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,” says Fidelity ADT’s District Manager for KwaZulu-Natal, Vaughan Pillay.

Upon arrival, officer Ncama could hear noises coming from inside the property. As the holiday home was empty, the keyholder was contacted and officer Ncama managed to quickly locate a suspect hiding in the ceiling. The suspect was successfully apprehended and handed over for arrest to members of the local SAPS.

“We commend officer Ncama for his swift response and bravery. Holiday home owners are encouraged to regularly check their alarm systems and to ensure that their private security provider has access to their homes in case of an emergency. I encourage residents 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.