In 2024 we saw a huge decrease in the number of crimes committed within the Kyalami AH Ext 1 area. In contrast to 2023, this is a very positive outcome and shows how the various security initiatives that have been implemented, not only in our area but in surrounding areas, have contributed towards a safer place for everyone to live in.
While there is no specific reason why the crime rates dropped so significantly, we could attribute it to the following reasons:
- During 2023, while we experienced a high number of incidents, the Sector 4 patrollers along with the various private security companies working in the area as well as with Midrand SAPS, implemented numerous patrols and operations in sector 4, focusing on high risk areas.
- Because of security measures implemented in other areas (Glenferness, Sun Valley, Beaulieu and Kyalami AH), especially street cameras, many suspects were apprehended and handed over to the SAPS for further processing.
- In August 2023, KEROA purchased and installed the first camera pole in our area, and it was also used in the apprehension of suspects as they tried to escape.
- In 2024, KEROA purchased its first LPR (license plate recognition) camera. This camera is installed along Caracal road, on the Kincardine wall. Thanks to the kind support of the Kincardine Management team (Mike and Gareth), we are able to use their network and power supply to operate this camera. Because of this camera, we are able to get the license plates of all vehicles coming in or going out of the area via that road and perform lookups on various databases (including SAPS) to detect wanted vehicles. This has already resulted in having multiple wanted vehicles stopped and handed over to SAPS for further processing.
- Late in 2024 Kincardine Estate installed another LPR camera on their wall on Zinnia road and provided us with access to this camera, which further enables us to track the movement of wanted vehicles.
KEROA was kindly donated two LPR cameras and these will be installed on Maple road (near Main) and Zinnia road (near Main). Once this is done, all entrance/exit routes in the entire sector 4 area will have LPR cameras, meaning that no “wanted” vehicles will be able to enter without being detected.
We would however still like to remind all members to not let their guard down and ensure that all their security systems are in working order.
Funding
Firstly, we would like to say thank you to those who have contributed funds for the security initiative! Unfortunately, the funds received so far are just not enough yet to add more street cameras.
Requests for funding for these vital security initiatives have been poorly received and KEROA remains the only residents association in the sector 4 area which do not receive regular funding from its members. Because of this, we have had to implement various other initiatives, such as the Kyalami Night Rides as well as hosting the Western Fair event in order to bring in extra funds.
Even with these events, we have not been able to raise enough money to be able to install more street cameras. On average, KEROA receives about R400 for each night ride and a new camera pole with 3 cameras on it costs roughly R35k (depending on the equipment required on the pole). We would have to host the monthly night rides for about 7 years before being able to purchase one camera pole.
We therefore urgently request from members to create monthly scheduled transfers to KEROA. Not only will this help to fund new installations but also the monitoring of the cameras at a later stage.
Here are the KEROA bank account details:
Account holder: Kyalami & Environs Residents Association (KEROA)
Bank: Nedbank
Branch: 15220500
Account number: 1045374458
Reference: Security
Online Incident Map
Have a look at our online incident map, located here.
We update this map with all incidents that we are made aware of via the WhatsApp groups.
Security Groups
All residents of Kyalami AH Ext 1 are able to join the “Sector 4 Emergency Only” WhatsApp group. In this group you may report any current or recent incidents, including medical emergencies, vehicle accidents or fires. To join this group, please send an email to security@keroa.co.za and include you full name, address and cellphone number.
Final Words
Please ensure that your alarm systems have some form of alternative power supply, such as solar power.
If you have solar panels, ensure that they are securely installed and cannot easily be removed. If possible, try and install a sensor to trigger your alarm system in case they are being tampered with.
Test your electric fence regularly to ensure that it is working correctly. If you need to replace the lead acid battery, replace it with a lithium battery instead as they will last a lot longer. (The same applies for your gate and garage door motors.)
Ensure that there is no grass or branches touching the wires of your fence, as this could cause a short or reduce the effectiveness of the fence. Criminals are also placing small metal wires over the fence in order to cause a short. These wires are often missed when a check is done, and the property owner will simply switch of the alarm. This then gives the criminals the opportunity to enter without raising suspicion.
Lastly, try and remove as much of the litter outside of your property as possible on a regular basis. It not only helps to keep the area looking neat and tidy, but it also shows that people are more alert and aware of their surroundings, making it less likely for criminals to target.
Kind regards,
KEROA Safety and Security