Security companies applauded for protecting businesses

Nokuthula Mabuza nokuthula.mabuza@inl.co.za THE Midlands Chamber of Commerce has applauded private security companies and other agencies involved in an initiative to protect businesses over the festive season. This comes after a spike in small business robberies during the festive season in Pietermaritzburg. The chamber’s CEO, Melanie Veness, said this initiative would benefit businesses and the communities. “Many small businesses can’t afford private security, and are therefore more vulnerable. The willingness shown by these security companies to voluntarily help protect these businesses at their own expense is commendable, and will benefit us all. “As organised business, we’re grateful for this generosity and support. Effectively combating crime requires a solid partnership between the SAPS and the private security industry,” Veness said. Private security companies had also pledged to voluntarily avail themselves to…