CRESTWATCH (Crestholme Neighborhood Watch) put up surveillance cameras in one of the hardest-hit areas by crime in Crestholme.
The cameras were paid for through donations from residents and were installed by residents.
They are monitored by patrollers via phones and tablets.
Rainbow Road had a spike in crime over a 12-month period, amounting to 90 per cent of reported crime in the area. “Recently we went through a week of break-ins and disturbances. This also affected Ridge Road and Valley View Road,” said Cuan Saunders from Crestwatch.
According to Saunders, residents got together and formed a plan to install cameras along the three roads. The project was spearheaded by residents, Ferdi van der Berg, Andrew du Toit and Saunders, and the first lot has been installed at the end of Rainbow Road.
“This spot for the first system was chosen due to it being a possible entry- and exit-point into the roads by criminals,” said Saunders.
There is a pathway leading into the neighbouring area. They have found evidence along the path that it is being used by criminals. It is also used by local workers in Crestholme, which was why they didn’t block it off, but rather cleaned it up.
“We have also organised for the area to be cleaned up for a better view and fewer hiding spots. Weeds and bush were cut back. We will be getting grass to grow back as well as planting some indigenous plants for a bit of upliftment,” said Saunders.
There has also been cable theft there, leaving the street in darkness. The municipality does not want to replace cables due to the number of thefts.
Saunders said, “We hope the cameras will be a deterrent so the lights can be fixed.”
Crestwatch Patrollers also has a live feed on mobile devices and can watch the area while patrolling another.
“Crestwatch is one of the oldest neighborhood watches around. It started as Farm Watch years ago. After joining with Blue Security and becoming a Blue Zone, we changed to Crestwatch,” Saunders said.
Saunders said they have a dedicated group of volunteers who help with crime-related issues as well as vehicle accident support along Inanda Road.
