A security operation in Hermanus has led to the arrest of a man allegedly linked to a hijacking and armed robbery in Zwelihle. This was one of seven arrests recorded by Hermanus Public Protection (HPP), Fidelity ADT and the police in September.

The suspect was among three men spotted by an HPP CCTV operator running through an industrial area on 12 September. The operator alerted HPP Special Response Unit officers and Fidelity ADT armed response, while another security provider also joined the pursuit.

Suspects fled into the nearby Mount Pleasant Sports Ground, where responding security teams worked together to contain the area.

One suspect was eventually detained after fleeing into a residential area. An unlicensed firearm was allegedly found in his possession.

According to HPP the suspect was subsequently linked to an alleged hijacking in Zwelihle in which three occupants of a vehicle were allegedly forced into the back of the vehicle before being driven to a depot in the industrial area.

The victims were allegedly robbed of cellphones and cash before the suspects fled.

Police arrested the suspect in connection with the alleged hijacking and armed robbery, while the other two suspects evaded capture.

The incident was one of several during September in which HPP’s CCTV network played a role in identifying, tracking or directing security teams towards suspects.

On 4 September an HPP CCTV operator helped locate a man allegedly involved in shoplifting after a foot patroller reported the incident.

The suspect was spotted running along the rocks and was detained following a foot chase before police arrested him.

On 10 September two men allegedly carrying a large bag were monitored by CCTV operators before the police were alerted.

The men were stopped and searched, and crayfish were found in their possession.

Both were arrested for the illegal possession of sea products.

Six arrests in one day

Six arrests were recorded on 12 September alone. In the morning an HPP foot patroller allegedly chased and detained a man who had fled a shop.

He was allegedly found with 11 boxes of Grandpa powder valued at about R1 130.

Later that day an HPP CCTV operator identified a vehicle allegedly associated with previous shoplifting incidents and monitored it as it travelled towards Whale Coast Mall.

Mall security detained two suspects who were allegedly found with stolen goods. The vehicle was then monitored until it stopped at a nearby petrol station, where HPP’s Special Response Unit and Fidelity ADT responded.

A large quantity of clothing was allegedly found inside the vehicle, with the occupants unable to provide proof of purchase.

The clothing was subsequently linked to several Hermanus CBD retailers. The driver and passenger were arrested for shoplifting.

Role played by private security surveillance

These incidents highlighted the increasingly important role played by private security surveillance in coordinating responses to crime in the town.

Fidelity ADT Hermanus branch manager Marius Boshoff said the incidents demonstrated the value of cooperation between private security companies, the police, businesses and the community.

“A teamwork approach to safety can make a significant difference in helping to prevent and respond to crime in Hermanus,” he said.

The September arrests therefore also highlight the public-interest role of a privately managed security operation funded through the local ratepayer system, particularly as CCTV operators repeatedly acted as a link between incidents, private security responders, businesses and the police.

HPP said the incidents demonstrated the importance of “rapid response, collaboration with the police and vigilant crime-prevention efforts” in protecting the Hermanus community.