GARSCOM WEEKLY NEWS  20th April 2026
GARSCOM CONTROL ROOM TELEPHONE NUMBERS

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• 012 993 0402

• 084 550 0826

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CRIME REPORT:

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• Residents are alerted to a suspected syndicate targeting properties by illegally tampering with electricity supply. In these cases, power is cut, meters are removed, and residents are allegedly extorted for payment to restore services. Victims are often directed to offices where fines are imposed or bribes are solicited. It is important that we work together and follow lawful procedures. We need sufficient evidence to build a case. Reports indicate that individuals arrive in a vehicle, tamper with electrical boxes, and are followed by a municipal vehicle documenting the damage.

• If you witness such activity:

o Record videos or take photographs
o Note vehicle registration numbers, times, and descriptions of individuals
o Gather as much detail as possible

Please send all information to Anri Kemp (082 758 2163). For further details, you may contact Anri directly.

• The theft of solar lights has increased significantly. Numerous incidents were reported to the police last week. Although one suspect was apprehended, thefts have continued. Solar lights installed at the gate of one GarsCom complex were also stolen. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals, even late at night, to the GarsCom control room immediately.

• No other incidents were reported.

• Please take note of your dogs behaviour. If your dogs bark, do not go outside at night to investigate. Instead, contact the GarsCom control room so that an armed response officer can inspect your property. Dogs that bark excessively without cause should be managed, as this can mislead patrols and disturb neighbors. In many cases, barking at gates or outer areas may not be audible from inside the house. If neighbors inform you of continuous barking, please address the issue promptly.

• When going shopping or visiting restaurants in the evening, keep the following in mind:

o Park your vehicle in a secure, well-lit area.
o Avoid displaying expensive jewellery.
o Never leave your mobile phone unattended on a table or counter.
o Do not carry your phone in your back pocket.
o Ensure that a sober person is designated to drive home.

• If you are stopped by a traffic or metro officer in an unmarked vehicle, you may indicate that you will only stop in a safe, well-lit area. You can also contact the GarsCom control room, provide your location, and request police assistance. Never pay bribes.

• Always remain aware of your surroundings when driving home. If you suspect you are being followed, contact the GarsCom control room for assistance.

• Fraud remains a major concern. Online scams are increasingly sophisticated. Do not click on suspicious links, and remember that your bank will never ask you to confirm personal details via email or message. If in doubt, ignore the communication.

 

COMMUNITY NEWS:

 

• The GarsCom Annual General Meeting will take place on 25 May 2026 at 19:00 in the new GarsCom boardroom. Residents are warmly invited to attend and view the new facility. An online participation link will be shared closer to the time. All relevant AGM documents will be available on the GarsCom website from 11 May.

• From 4 to 8 May, GarsCom will host a House and Garden Helper Training Programme daily from 13:00 to 14:30. The sessions include:

o Basic crime prevention at home
o Fire safety training
o A short self-defense course

• The training is free, and attendees will receive a light lunch. Residents are encouraged to attend with their domestic workers or gardeners. Sessions will take place daily next to the Sasol garage shop.

 

Safe week for all,
GarsCom greetings
Carol v Niekerk

 

Language editing and translation: Attie van Niekerk, GarsCom resident