Security company warns guesthouses to follow safer practice following robbed establishment.
Beagle Watch Armed Response has urged all guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts and other places of accommodation to consider improving their security following arrests of four suspects linked to guesthouse robberies. According to Beagle Watch managing director André Aiton, one of their clients was recently targeted by such criminals.
He explained, “With the help of information supplied by our client in Northcliff, Beagle Watch was able to support the Fairland SAPS’s investigation and four suspects believed to be involved in robberies at four different guesthouses are now behind bars.” He added that these guesthouses are known to be targeted by groups of well-dressed men driving high-end vehicles. Beagle Watch is pleading with guesthouses to adhere to safer business practices.
He has advised that they ensure that all guests complete a proper check-in register and are able to provide proof of identity and car registration details prior to checking in. Aiton addressed suspects involved in such saying, “Criminals should know that they will not get away with crimes in our footprint.”
Beagle Watch has also offered free safety and security awareness training for guesthouses and restaurant staff in its footprint. Those interested are encouraged to contact Beagle Watch’s call centre on 011 678 1972 for more information. The security company has also offered safety tips for guesthouses to avoid being victims of these robberies.
Safety tips for hospitality establishments:
- Ensure that all guests complete a comprehensive check-in register and are able to provide proof of identity
- Insist on car registration details and make a copy or take a photo of the guest’s driver’s licence
- Take a photo of the vehicle’s licence disc as part of the check-in procedure
- Equip all staff with panic buttons linked to your armed response provider and have an action plan in place in case of emergencies
- Do a safety check of the establishment and secure high-value items, such as computers, laptop, televisions, paintings, etc.
- Keep all alcoholic beverages out of sight and locked away
- Instal CCTV cameras in all common areas, as well as entrances and external areas
- Ensure your short-term insurance is up to date.
