Crime busters ready for the new year

You would be forgiven for thinking that a new security company had been appointed to watch over the UCT community. However, the men and women donning navy blue pants, yellow tops and blue caps are in fact the very same company originally designated as the university's protectors, albeit for a name and uniform change.

Since Securicor plc acquired Gray Security Services two years ago, the company has embarked on a progressive and phased marketing drive to implement various branding initiatives.

"We would like to notify staff and students that we are the same company, providing the same services to the university," said Securicor's Stuart Wragg.

"Although the new uniforms are a cosmetic change, they are a breath of fresh air for our Campus Protection Services' (CPS) staff, who are feeling bright-eyed, bushy-tailed and ready for the demands of the new year. In addition, the uniforms provide improved visibility and sun protection."

Movement within Securicor's management team has seen Wragg appointed to regional manager while Vincent Ricketts has taken over as operations manager at UCT. Alain Snyman has been named deputy operations manager.

Speaking at the start of the academic year, Ricketts pointed out that CPS's main focus during 2004 would be the reduction of office and residence crimes.

"We have been involved with various activities and talks during the orientation process in an attempt to reduce crimes committed in these two areas. We would like to encourage staff and students to take responsibility for their own safety while viewing our services as a support to this."

The university community is reminded to lock offices (including securing petty cash) and vehicles and to report all concerns and crimes to security officers.

"Crimes are reoccurring on campus because people are not taking the necessary action and reporting suspicious characters," said Ricketts. "Whether it is a false alarm or not, we need to be alerted to possible security breaches."

CPS operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week from six service centres. Contact them on 650-2222/3.