Security Risk Assessor – Crime evolves along with the progression of technology, and criminals are growing daily along with the internet. Therefore, it is vital that those of us who make it out business to prevent crime must remain up-to-date with all the latest developments to remain successful in our endeavors. We should also not forget that South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world, as the media regularly reminds us. # Independent Security Risk Assessor
Assumptions
People often assume that criminals lack education. However, statistics reveal that 90% of these criminals lack a matriculation qualification. They are unemployed, yet they still conduct their research before committing crimes. They often survey the intended target, whether it’s your home or business, for up to 2 weeks, becoming more familiar with the area and its surroundings better than the property owners.
Most of the time, attackers’ home bases are within a 10- to 30-minute drive of the intended victim’s property. During this period, they consider all possible entrance and exit routes, as well as the busiest and quietest times on the roads in the area. They identify the weakest points in your security and exploit them to their advantage.
An opportunity will be taken
Any opportunity presented to them will be taken without a second thought. They even go as far as timing the arrival of the Armed Response Units to determine exactly how much time they have available.
Furthermore, many criminals have received some form of combat training (SAPS, security, or military), which means they know how to effectively protect themselves.
The criminals are ready to risk everything, including imprisonment or even death. They are the most dangerous because they disregard the consequences for others if they perish and show no fear of the law. 97% of them are armed, typically in groups of four, where individuality fades and aggression may escalate as members influence one another.
Logical thinking
Often these criminal individuals are not thinking logically. Mental imbalance or instability, along with anger and hatred, may impact their judgment. Substance abuse occasionally influences criminals’ behavior, leading them to be less hesitant and more bold in their criminal acts.
There have been instances when the criminal is under the influence of witch doctor’s medicines, known as muti, which might lead him to believe in the delusion that he is, for example, invincible or invisible. This makes these individuals highly unpredictable and extremely dangerous. At least 30% of these criminals have previously committed murder and would not hesitate to do so again. During an interview with a hardened criminal, he stated the following when questioned as to why they kill:
“If you have killed one person already, what difference does another twenty make?”
Research
Due to all the reasons listed, it is vital to do as much research in person as possible on the latest trends regarding crime. By doing this, we can always stay one step ahead of them.
A large part of research and development is attending security conferences, forums, and seminars as regularly as we can. Furthermore, we will attend meetings with complex committees, communities, property developers, managers, and business owners. Through these meetings, we are able to gather more information. Therefore, ensuring that we stay aware of any new trends that are occurring in your specific area.
Living document
A Security Risk Assessment remains a living document. Although we’ve completed your assessment, we’ll continue to update you on trends and new products found during our research. Being in control of your security is crucial, and acquiring knowledge is the only way to do so.
This is why the research and development process is vital in the end success.
The ultimate goal of crime prevention tactics is to reduce your and your family’s or colleagues’ chances of becoming a victim of crime.
André, an Independent Security Risk Assessor, consults security and crime prevention experts when needed to find your unique security solution. Remember, security is not a one-off or one-size-fits-all solution. Each and every client has very individual and specific needs and daily routines; the environment and lifestyle affect this. The assessment considers all of these aspects. Written by Andre Mundell, Alwinco’s independent risk assessor and consultant. # Independent Security Risk Assessor
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All of Gauteng’s major cities—Annlin, Bedfordview, Country View, Sandton, and Centurion—as well as Universitas, Durban, and Cape Town are within our security risk assessment service area.