Many people report crimes to eblockwatch but it is not always possible to catch them even if the criminals are known.
This according to Andre Snyman of eblockwatch, and Bryanston resident as part of this weeks edition of How Safe Are You?, an online and print security feature in partnership with the Sandton Chronicle and eblockwatch, who discusses how they plan on using technology to catch criminals.
He said there have been several cases where eblockwatch has been made aware of crimes, even with video proof, but no action is taken against the perpetrator. “We have had a situation where a hijacker was hiding out in Sandton and we know where cell phones were taken to after they were stolen during smash-and-grabs.
“We tracked the cell phones many times and we know where they get unlocked, but it is quite hard to get action on these type of crimes.”
Snyman said, the past week, eblockwatch took a video of taxis driving on the wrong side of the road, the operation was attended by MMC for Public Safety Michael Sun and the Metro police.
“We were told that only a police officer can take action and that a video of a perpetrator cannot be held up in court because the person taking the video is not always prepared to go to court.
“This is why with our new game Snakes and Ladders, a partnership between eblockwatch and the JMPD, is working. We are creating heat maps for the JMPD and calling them to react to the situation.”
The past week Metro police impounded several taxis after an operation on Witkoppen Road. “The power of performing is up to the police and we as the community should assist them and motivate the right people to do what Michael Sun is doing.”
He continued there is a huge wave of people supporting the cause and are helping to create maps and hotspots which can be handed to the Metro police.
“The eblockwatch community are very excited and enthusiastic and we are busy putting the app together which will hopefully launch in the new year.”
Snyman also warned it is very dangerous to try and take on the drivers. “They are under a huge amount of pressure and have to complete a certain number of trips.”
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