Watch: Private Anti-Hijacking Unit assists South African Police

UNDER resourced police and the increase in crime in the Western Cape has opened the door for private security companies to assist officers out on raids.

One such company helping to provide an extra layer of security for the SAPS, law enforcement agencies, community policing forums, and neighbourhood watches is the Empire tactical response and anti-hijacking unit. On Friday, Weekend Argus joined the security company for a few hours as they patrolled some of Cape Town’s toughest neighbourhoods. The security team receive a briefing at their Landsdowne Road offices before heading out for the day. They reminded to call their loved ones before heading out on a operation.

Working up to 16-hour shifts a day means the security officers, some of whom are former SAPS members and reservists, are on alert ready to act as back-up for police operations.

Tactical member Brent Seaman switches on his radio shortly after the briefing. It crackles, a few seconds later a voice calls for back-up in Mitchells Plain.

Seaman quickly responds and he is off to assist the flying squad.

“This is why the boss always tells us to never leave the house angry, because you don’t know what you will be up against.

“Sometimes you (go) to scenes where the community is not thankful for the sacrifices, and sides with the criminals,” he said.

Video Armand Hough / African News Agency (ANA)