Should Bedford Centre be criticised for being a target?

Miguel Abrahams

With Bedford Centre being an integral part of the Bedfordview community, and a number of incidents being reported, residents have expressed safety concerns over safety and security at the centre.

Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys feels the pressure as residents are criticizing the centre for not having enough security for shoppers’ safety.

“I have been bombarded with residents stating that the centre does not have enough security. The residents also expressed that community organisations are protecting the centre,” said Humphreys.

“How much more criticism should the centre take without any statistics or figures that suggest the centre is unsafe. The centre is an obvious target for criminals due to its high value and upmarket nature,” said Humphreys.

The NEWS reported in January 2015 when seven suspects entered the centre and targeted SBV guards who were dropping off money. Two suspects were convicted in 2018.

In May 2018, the NEWS reported that Bedfordview SAPS confirmed a man had been attacked by another man with a machete at the centre.

The report included an update about increased security at the centre.

Bedfordview Community Police Forum (BCPF) chairperson Gavin Henry believes that the centre has enough security.

“As in any public place, do not be complacent. Check that your car actually does lock, conceal your wallet or handbag, and don’t leave it in a trolley.

“More importantly, do not openly display wealth such as watches and jewellery,” said Henry.

Henry added that the centre is subject to criminal activity no more so than other shopping centres.

“The centre is a major drawcard and landmark in the area. More feet go through the door will lead to more socio-economic issues.

“We have noticed that even if a crime happens in, for example, Smith Street, the public immediately says that it happened at Bedford Centre. This very quickly and incorrectly becomes a Bedford Centre issue,” said Henry.

Henry would like residents to be more inclusive with security guards by greeting them.

“This makes them aware that you are in the vicinity and encourages them to perform better. It will also show anyone that may be following you that you are awake and aware of your surroundings, not consumed with your daily chores,” said Henry.

Nikki Savides Kruger, marketing manager at the centre, released a statement on customer safety.

“The safety of Bedford Centre’s shoppers, tenants, and staff, is of utmost importance and their ongoing safety is top of mind with the continued implementation of strategic security measures and processes, as well as a close working relationship with Bedfordview Police Department among other crime mitigating protocols,” said Kruger.