Gate motor theft is a major concern as numerous incidents are being reported all over Rand West City.
Local security companies, EPR West Rand and Mapogo A Mathamaga Security in Randfontein spoke to the Herald about gate motor theft.
Johan Krogh, General Manager of EPR West Rand, confirmed that currently there is an increase in gate motor theft in Randfontein.
“We have noticed spikes in the past, but then it would quiet down only to flame up again. We suspect that when awareness is raised the thieves tend to retreat for a while,” said Krogh.
He explained that the trend will continue as long as people are willing to pay for ‘cheap’ gate motors and parts.
Krogh explained that this is a concerning crime in the community, and once criminals have seen how easily they can gain access to properties it can lead to more serious crimes.
Ben Willemse, operations manager at Mapogo, stated that for the past three months they have had two incidents where gate motors were stolen, and two attempts to steal gate motors; fortunately the would-be thieves fled because alarm was raised.
Willemse explained that Greenhills, Helikon Park and Randfontein Central seem to be the main attraction because there are easy escape routes.
“These areas provide a fast getaway for criminals who are familiar with the areas. They might even stay in the vicinity of their victims,” said Willemse.
According to Krogh, in the first eight days of June they have had five cases where gate motors and gate motor parts were stolen in Greenhills, Helikon Park, Hillside and Bootha Plots.
“These do not include any attempts that we or residents were not aware of,” he said.
Although the cases that were reported to EPR West Rand were at residential properties in town and in agricultural areas, it doesn’t mean that business properties have not been or will not be targeted in the future.
“These thieves scout areas in advance looking for easy targets. They move around not to create a pattern,” warned Krogh.
Both security companies came to the same conclusion – gate motors are stolen because they are easy money.
“They are easy to sell and are stripped for their components. The gate motor main board, batteries and gearbox can be sold individually or as a complete refurbished unit to unsuspecting buyers,” explained Willemse.
He added that it is important to have perimeter protection as if forms part of an early warning and detection system. Perimeter beams, CCTV cameras or external sound alarms (buzzer) can scare off potential criminals.
Krogh said gate motors and the parts are expensive, and are relatively easy targets if they are not properly or correctly installed. The items are sold to whoever is prepared to buy them at a reduced price.
They offered the following advice for safeguarding a gate motor:
1. Make sure that the design of your gate is such that it wouldn’t be possible to lift it at either end, and that the sliding rack of the motor is not exposed or easily accessible from outside.
2. Instead of a solid gate, install a solid plate or mesh grid on the gate in front of the motor. This will limit the possibility of thieves using a crowbar to dismantle the motor.
3. Ensure that the motor is properly anchored in cement or on a steel base.
4. Use a sturdy anti-theft bracket, but remember to use to a good-quality lock.
5. Install a gate alarm that is connected to your alarm system, if possible.
6. Ensure that there is enough lighting at night as criminals prefer dark areas where they remain undetected.
7. Raise an alarm when noticing criminals and supply as much information to your security company or the police as possible, such as the vehicle used, make, colour, suspect’s description and identifying clothing.
