Plumstead Neighbourhood Watch expands camera network

Plumstead Neighbourhood Watch has embarked on a project to improve the area's security by installing cameras across the precinct.  

The initiative began in February last year with three cameras installed in high-risk hotspots, after an extensive registration process with the City of Cape Town and other relevant stakeholders.

Following its success in supporting police efforts, providing footage and additional surveillance to help apprehend criminals, more cameras were added, says chairperson Anthea Klugman. 

“We officially launched the project in January 2025, expanding the camera network with additional cameras as well as introducing a small group of virtual patrollers connected to the system. We currently have 28 cameras installed.” 

According to the watch, success stories directly attributed to the camera network include:

• In a card scam incident, they were able to follow an individual across multiple cameras till they entered a taxi and left the area, ultimately ruling them out as suspects in February.
• A suspect entered a property and removed various items. By tracking them across multiple cameras, the watch obtained clear footage identifying both the individual and the stolen goods, which was provided to SAPS for further investigation, leading to an arrest in March.
• Following a street robbery, multiple cameras captured the getaway vehicle from various angles. The watch provided SAPS with high-quality footage, including the licence plate and detailed views of the car from all sides, enabling SAPS to flag it for further investigation in April.

The watch clarified that the camera project is an additional layer of security and is not intended to replace local security service providers.

“PNW is not a security entity and is thus not offering any security services. The objective of the camera project is to have a single platform to identify suspicions and criminal behaviour and to either prevent or assist in the identification and arrest of the perpetrators. Our vision is to have cameras on every street corner, ensuring 24/7 protection for our community, 365 days a year,” says Ms Klugman.

The camera project is reliant on community donations to continue expanding and for maintenance. The neighbourhood watch is urging residents to contribute a small monthly donation to help fund additional cameras or sponsor a camera, the cost per camera installation is R5 800 

Diep River police chief Lieutenant Colonel Ansley Jacobs says the station is in full support of the project. 

“The use of modern technology definitely plays a huge role in the investigation and combating of crime. The expansion of the project will indeed help in keeping the neighborhood safer.”

More information on the camera project or banking details for the neighbourhood watch can be found on their website www.plumsteadwatch.org.za