Loadshedding has led to a crime wave in SA

Sorry, more bad news: loadshedding has led to a crime wave in SA. According to insurer Auto & General, reported burglaries in the first two weeks of 2023 are 40% higher than the same period in 2022. Businesstech, quoted security experts speaking at a National Press Club briefing on loadshedding security risks on 24 January. They said that crime levels in South Africa had been exacerbated by the ongoing power crisis. Auto & General said, “From murder to hijackings to burglaries, all levels of crime in South Africa stand to rise when the lights go out.”

Protect yourself

Geoffrey Coetzee, chief ranger at Marksman’s Nest, said that this underlined once again the fact that private citizens should be able to protect themselves and their loved ones. “When the power fails, alarm systems, gate motors and electric fencing stop working. This makes it easier for criminals to not only gain access to properties, but also to spend a longer time on their nefarious activities. “It’s important to note that our self-defence courses teach individuals how to identify suspicious behaviour. Perhaps one of the most common indicators is when you notice an individual(s) sitting in a parked car for an extended period of time. Loitering for no apparent reason can also be a red flag.”

Avoid, Prepare, Defend

The courses at Markman’s Nest emphasise that safety awareness and self-awareness work hand in hand. It’s a matter of Avoid, Prepare, Defend. Geoffrey said, “You can't control the actions of others, but that doesn't mean you can't protect yourself. After self-defence training, you’ll be prepared to get out of dangerous situations both in public and in your own home. It’ll be a matter of saying to any attackers, ‘Don't mess with me!’”

Gun safety

Then there’s the all-important matter of gun safety. Geoffrey and his team provide trainees with firearm safety training courses. These cover: firearm operation; safe handling; the physics of firearms: cleaning and repairing firearms; firearm laws and regulations; and best practices for keeping firearms away from children or other vulnerable individuals. Rather be safe than sorry. Get training. Be prepared.