The Real Security Threats Facing SA Businesses: Why Traditional Solutions Aren't Enough

17 Feb 2025

Let's face it, South Africa's security landscape is getting tougher by the day. The latest crime statistics from January paint an interesting picture. The data shows that while business robberies remain relatively low across most provinces, with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal seeing slightly higher incidents, they're overshadowed by more prevalent crimes like armed robbery, theft, and social unrest. Between January 24th and February 13th, 2025, we've actually seen protest actions drop from over 90 incidents to around 50. Planned protest marches have stayed pretty steady at lower numbers too. Good news? Maybe. But smart businesses know better than to let their guard down, especially since January typically marks a quieter period following the holiday season. Historically, we tend to see criminal activity and protest actions ramp up as the year progresses, so while these numbers might look encouraging, businesses should remain vigilant and prepare for potentially increased activity in the coming months.

Here's what's really happening on the ground. In the Eastern Cape, areas like Mjelweni, Sugarbush, and Gqeberha Central have been marked as hotspots for unrest. Gauteng's dealing with tension in Marlboro Gardens, Lenasia, and Doornfontein. KZN's not far behind, from Phoenix to Durban Central and KwaMashu, those areas are feeling the heat. The Western Cape has its own challenges, with Bellville, Mowbray, and Cape Town Central set to see their fair share of disruption.

Sure, protest numbers might be down, but the underlying issues haven't gone anywhere. We're still looking at massive poverty rates, huge income gaps, and unequal access to education and jobs. When people can't make ends meet or see a way forward, tension builds. Add in rising crime rates and violence against women, and you've got a powder keg waiting to blow.

Take what's happening right now. In KwaZulu-Natal, The Durban University of Technology has suspended campus operations following disruptions at their campuses, while demonstrations have taken place near Thekwini TVET College Asherville Campus over registration grievances. The province is further strained by failing water infrastructure that has people at their wits' end. In Gauteng, reports suggest that students could potentially take to the streets over NSFAS payment delays, while the NSFAS Head Office in the Western Cape has been identified as a high-risk location for protests, we're talking about young people who can't afford to eat, let alone study. Meanwhile in Mpumalanga, communities are pushing back against Eskom's inspections. 

When these protests kick-off, even if there are fewer of them, they don't just affect the immediate area. Roads get blocked, supply chains break down, employees can't get to work, and suddenly your business is taking hits from all sides. A protest in Soweto can paralyse operations in Sandton. Unrest in Phoenix can shut down businesses in Umhlanga.

This is where specialised security solutions become crucial. "These aren't your regular security guards," explains Wayne Krumm, who heads up the Intervention Unit at Excellerate Services. "We're talking about specialists who know exactly how to handle high-pressure situations. When seconds count, you need people who can think fast and act decisively."

The solution lies in a comprehensive security approach. When a protest in KwaNobuhle shuts down the main road to Kariega, or when tension in Waterloo affects businesses all the way to Umhlanga, you need two different types of security muscle. Your Tactical Team handles those immediate, serious threats, but the broader social challenges? That’s where Riot Response Units earn their keep. 

Think about it, your business might not be the target of a protest, but if there's unrest in your area, you still need to protect your people and keep operations going. That's not something a CCTV camera can help you with.

The reality is simple, yes, protest numbers might be down right now, but South Africa's security challenges aren't going anywhere. The businesses that thrive will be the ones that adapt and prepare. Whether it's organised crime or social unrest, having the right security response can make the difference between staying open or having to shut your doors.

Want to learn more about how to protect your business from today's real security threats? Click here, we'll show you exactly what it takes to stay secure in SA's challenging environment.

Source: TopicWorx