YOU MAY SHARE THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT
South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of violent crime, impacting both urban and rural communities.
OVERALL MURDER RATES:
In 2024, South Africa recorded 26,232 murders, averaging 72 murders per day.
This equates to a murder rate of 42 per 100,000 people, maintaining the country's position among those with the highest murder rates globally.
During the third quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year (October to December 2024), there were 6,953 murders, reflecting a 9.8% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year.
FARM ATTACKS AND MURDERS:
The prevalence of farm attacks remains a critical concern.
In the third quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year, official police statistics reported one farmer killed and a total of 12 farm-related murders, which include farm dwellers, employees, and security personnel.
For the period between April 2023 and March 2024, records indicate 36 victims of farm attacks, with a significant proportion being elderly individuals aged between 60 and 79.
OTHER VIOLENT CRIMES:
In the second quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year (July to September 2024), there were 6,545 murders, averaging 73 murders per day.
Additionally, there were 7,061 attempted murder cases and 42,721 assaults with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, highlighting the pervasive nature of violent crime.
The first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year saw an increase in crimes against women and children, with more cases of murder and sexual assault reported compared to the same period in the previous year.
REGIONAL INSIGHTS:
The provinces contributing the highest number of murder cases during the third quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year were:
Gauteng: 25%
KwaZulu-Natal: 21.4%
Eastern Cape: 18.9%
Western Cape: 17.4%
These statistics underscore the ongoing challenges South Africa faces in combating violent crime, particularly in rural areas where farm attacks persist.
The role of private security companies remains pivotal in addressing these security concerns, providing specialised services to safeguard vulnerable communities.
South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world, with home invasions, burglaries,
and armed robberies posing a constant threat to residents. Crime Stats SA reported over 50,000 burglaries
at residential premises between April and September 2023 alone.
While high crime levels are a reality, many property owners unknowingly make simple security mistakes
that increase their risk of becoming a target.
Criminals often exploit weak points.
The most effective security is proactive, not reactive.
LEAVING GATES, DOORS AND WINDOWS UNLOCKED:
One of the most common security mistakes is failing to lock doors, gates, and windows properly. In over 30% of burglaries, criminals gain access through an unlocked door or window.
Criminals prefer easy entry points that do not attract attention.
Many people believe they are safe during the day, but daytime burglaries are just as frequent as nighttime ones.
Opportunistic criminals often check for unlocked gates and doors before attempting forced entry.
Always lock your doors and security gates, even when you are at home.
Double-check that windows, particularly on the ground floor, are secured.
Install security bars or trellis gates on windows for added protection.
POOR PERIMETER SECURITY (WALLS, FENCES AND GATES):
Your perimeter is your first line of defence. In many home invasion cases, criminals simply jump over a low wall or cut through a weak fence to gain entry.
Electric fences are a strong deterrent, but only if properly maintained. In 2022, nearly 70% of electric fences tested in a security audit were not working correctly due to poor maintenance, lack of backup power, or faulty wiring.
Invest in high walls, electric fencing, and reinforced gates.
Ensure that gates cannot be lifted off their tracks or easily forced open.
Conduct regular maintenance checks on electric fencing and security beams.
NOT ACTIVATING YOUR ALARM SYSTEM:
Many homeowners install alarm systems but fail to use them regularly. Studies show that an unarmed alarm is as ineffective as having no alarm.
Criminals often target houses where alarms are visibly present but not in use.
Some syndicates monitor alarm habits and strike when they know the system is off.
Arm your alarm at all times, even when at home.
Install panic buttons in key areas like the bedroom and near entrances.
Test your alarm system monthly to ensure all sensors are functioning correctly.
LEAVING VALUABLES IN SIGHT:
Many burglaries occur because criminals spot valuable items in plain view. Laptops, phones, wallets, and car keys left on tables near windows make your home an easy target.
A security study found that criminals often stake out homes by looking through windows before a break-in.
Vehicle theft has also increased because keys are left near entry points where criminals can quickly grab them.
Keep blinds and curtains closed at night, especially in rooms facing the street.
Avoid placing valuables near windows or entrances.
Use safes for cash, jewellery, and important documents.
POOR OUTDOOR LIGHTING:
Criminals prefer to operate in dark and hidden areas.
Over 60% of break-ins occur in homes with poor exterior lighting.
Criminals can hide in shadows near entrances or inside the property before launching an attack.
Homes with bright security lights are significantly less likely to be targeted.
Install motion-activated security lights in all vulnerable areas.
Ensure driveways, walkways, and entrances are well-lit at night.
IGNORING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY:
Many home invasions are preceded by weeks of surveillance.
Criminals often pretend to be service workers, beggars, or delivery drivers to gather information.
In 2023, multiple home invasions in Johannesburg were linked to fake maintenance workers who surveyed properties before returning with armed gangs.
Report suspicious individuals seen loitering near your home.
Do not engage directly—alert security companies or neighbourhood watch groups.
LETTING STRANGERS ONTO YOUR PROPERTY WITHOUT VERIFYING THEM:
Criminals frequently pose as electricians, meter readers, or municipal workers to gain access to homes.
A security study in Pretoria found that more than 40% of home invasions involved criminals posing as workers.
Always verify the identity of workers and service providers before allowing them onto your property.
Install intercoms and security gates to communicate without opening doors.
OVERSHARING ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Social media has become a goldmine for criminals looking for easy targets.
Posting about vacations or trips alerting criminals that your home is empty.
Sharing location-tagged photos makes it easy for criminals to track you.
Avoid posting your whereabouts in real-time.
Turn off location tracking on your phone and social media apps.
OVERGROWN BUSHES AND TREES:
Dense vegetation provides hiding spots for criminals before they attempt a break-in.
Keep shrubs and trees trimmed, especially near doors, windows, and boundary walls.
Use thorny plants near walls and fences as a natural deterrent.
NEGLECTING SECURITY CAMERAS:
Security cameras are only effective if they are correctly installed and maintained.
Many homeowners do not check their cameras regularly, leaving them broken or misaligned.
Test cameras monthly to ensure they are working.
Use off-site storage or cloud-based recording to prevent criminals from disabling footage.
FAKE SECURITY MEASURES CAN BE DANGEROUS:
Many homeowners rely on dummy security cameras or fake alarm boxes to deter criminals.
However, experienced criminals can easily spot fake deterrents, making your home an even bigger target.
Invest in actual security measures rather than relying on "tricks."
Combine visible security signage with actual working alarm systems, cameras, and neighbourhood watch participation.
NOT HAVING A BACKUP PLAN FOR LOAD SHEDDING:
South Africa's persistent load shedding creates significant security risks, as alarm systems, electric fences, and security cameras may fail during power cuts.
Criminals know this and often time their attacks during blackouts.
Invest in battery backups for alarm systems, electric fences, and cameras.
Use solar-powered motion sensor lights to keep key areas well-lit during outages.
Be extra vigilant during load shedding, as police response times are often slower during these periods.
GARAGE DOORS:
Many homeowners secure their front doors and windows but neglect their garage doors, which can be an easy access point for criminals.
Criminals can open garage doors in under 10 seconds using basic tools or hacking electronic remotes.
Once inside the garage, they often have direct access to the house through an unlocked internal door.
Reinforce garage doors with additional locks or security bolts.
Never leave garage remotes in vehicles parked outside.
Secure the internal door between your garage and home with a deadbolt.
NOT HAVING A SAFE ROOM OR AN EMERGENCY PLAN:
Home invasions happen quickly, and victims often freeze due to shock.
Without a pre-planned escape or hiding strategy, your response time may be too slow.
Designate a safe room in your home with a reinforced door, a panic button, and a phone.
Practice emergency drills with your family so everyone knows where to go and what to do during a break-in.
IGNORING SECURITY IN RURAL OR GATED COMMUNITIES:
Many people feel safer in gated estates or rural areas and let their guard down.
However, crime syndicates specifically target high-end properties because they assume the owners have more valuables.
In 2023, some of the most violent home invasions in Gauteng and KZN took place in secure estates where criminals had bypassed or bribed security.
Never assume a gated community is crime-proof—apply the same security measures as you would in an open suburb.
If you live in a rural area, join farm watch groups and invest in perimeter security like beams, cameras, and armed response services.
NOT VARYING YOUR ROUTINE:
Criminals often study their victims' routines for weeks before striking.
Leaving for work or arriving home at the same time every day makes you predictable—and easier to target.
Vary your departure and arrival times whenever possible.
Take different routes to and from work or school.
Be aware of any cars or people loitering near your home over multiple days.
WEAK OR UNSECURED WI-FI NETWORKS:
Cybercrime is on the rise, and many criminals hack Wi-Fi networks to gather information on victims.
A weak or unprotected Wi-Fi network can allow criminals to access security cameras, smart home systems, and even banking details.
Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi and smart home devices.
Enable two-factor authentication for all security systems.
Regularly update router firmware to patch security vulnerabilities.
While South Africa's crime rate remains high, many security risks can be mitigated by avoiding these simple mistakes.
Proactive security habits, regular maintenance,
and increased vigilance can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
By securing perimeter defences, lighting, alarms, and cameras and being cautious with strangers and social media, homeowners can create a much safer environment for themselves and their families.
South African criminals are becoming more sophisticated, so your security measures must evolve, too.
Avoiding these common mistakes significantly reduces your risk and makes your home a hard target.
OTHER RELEVANT PROJECTS POSTED BY SSS:
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:
1. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device.
2. Click on the link below to join the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel:
3. Follow the prompts to join the channel.
4. Make sure you click on "Follow", then click on the "bell"-icon (🔔)
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.
POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv
SSS TASK TEAM:
Copyright © 2015- PRESENT | Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services | All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
Mike Bolhuis Specialised Security Services
PO Box 15075 Lynn East
Pretoria, Gauteng 0039
South Africa
Add us to your address book
THIS PUBLIC DOCUMENT WAS INTENDED TO BE SHARED, PLEASE DO SO.
Comments