Bloemfontein thief caught

Fidelity ADT arrested a suspect in Bloemfontein following a business break in and theft that took place at approximately 04:11, 25 January 2021.

The suspects stole some items from the premises and were on their way to making an escape when Fidelity ADT Reaction Officer Mohokare arrived on the scene. He saw one suspect come running out from inside the premises exiting the main door. Soon after, another suspect came running out. Reaction Officer Mohokare gave chase and managed to apprehend one of the suspects. Suspect was handed over to Constable Zondi from Park Road police station.

Robin Goveia, branch manager at Fidelity ADT commends the manner in which their Reaction Officer responded to the alarm activation, as well as the good work done together with SAPS to apprehend the suspect.

Goveia provides the following tips and precautions to secure your business and urges businesses to put basic practical measures in place to assist in preventing burglary, theft and armed robberies:

• Controlled entrances are important in preventing over-crowding in your premises; make sure you have measures in place to restrict movement at entrances and exits to your business, for both staff and customers
• Implementing solutions that assist you in doing this could dramatically reduce shrinkage in your business
• Be alert during opening and closing times. Always work in pairs to prevent being surprised or being overpowered by criminals. Train your staff to ask for identification before allowing entry to the premises
• Make sure all outside entrances and inside security doors have deadbolt locks. If you use padlocks, they should be made of steel and kept locked at all times. Remember to remove serial numbers from your locks, to prevent unauthorised keys from being duplicated
• Windows should have secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. Consider installing metal grates on all your windows except display windows
• Light the inside and outside of your business, especially around doors, windows, skylights, or other entry points. Consider installing covers over exterior lights and power sources to deter tampering
• Always use the services of a reputable company when selecting security guards. Always rotate security guards and insist that they are vetted on a regular basis
• Keep your cash register in plain view from the outside of your business, so it can be monitored by police during the day or at night. Leave it open and empty after closing
• Be sure your safe is fireproof and securely anchored. Remember to change your security password when an employee who has had access to it leaves your business
• Always invest in an alarm, CCTV and an electronic article surveillance system that meets your level of security needs. Learn how to use your system properly and check the system daily. It is advisable to run a test when closing
• Most importantly is the updating of your keyholders before closing your business for any holiday season. Make sure that all the relevant information is updated should we need to contact you or the person in charge

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Compiled on behalf of Fidelity ADT by Cathy Findley Public Relations, for media queries contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 071 764 8233