South Africans from all over the country were taken aback by the recent unrest and violence that pulsed through our streets earlier this month. Lives were heartbreakingly lost and several businesses destroyed. The damage perpetrated was worth billions in an already suffering economy. The #notinmycommunity movement began as communities and businesses united against looting. Community members put their lives at risk for each other and in the protection of their places of work, shopping, and homes.

Reports from Kwa-Zulu Natal, Gauteng, and various parts of South Africa demonstrate the measures taken by community members at this time. Responsible interventions by the public, private security companies, and community safety forums resulted in many communities and businesses being protected and secured during the unrest.

Similarly, community watch patrols urgently sprang into action, as communities tried to stand against violence. We, at Broubart Security, encourage these community patrols and have a successful Resident Community Patrol Initiative. This initiative consists of several residents patrolling the suburb of Nahoon Mouth each weekend. We supply these residents with branded car magnets that communicate their active street patrolling within their community. We also provide access to our control room should they have needed assistance via two-way radios.

By these residences’ actions and partnership with us, we witness the strength of our communities to improve safety in their areas. These initiatives supported by our active patrol vehicles decrease crime.

If you are based in East London and would like to explore a community patrol service, contact us on 043 743 0975 or via email at info@broubart.co.za for any security questions and needs.