Atlas Security Crime Update 16 – 22 February 2026
Crime
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Atlas Security Crime Update
16 – 22 February 2026
Atlas Security responded to 95 incidents across Nelson Mandela Bay between 16 and 22 February 2026.
This is a noticeable decrease from the previous week, where 110 incidents were recorded. That means overall activity dropped by 15 incidents week on week, a reduction of just under 14%.
While the total number of call-outs decreased, arrests increased.
Arrests This Week
Atlas Security teams made 9 arrests during this reporting period, compared to 7 arrests the week before.
What We Responded To
The majority of incidents were property-related, with theft continuing to be the biggest concern.
- Theft – 25 cases
- Theft Attempt – 24 cases
- Burglary Positive – 11 cases
- Burglary Attempt – 8 cases
- Medical Emergencies – 11 cases
- Vehicle Accidents / Incidents – 8 cases
The numbers show that criminals are still targeting opportunities where access is easiest. Attempted theft remains high, which reinforces the importance of visible patrols, alarm systems and quick response.
In addition to crime-related incidents, our teams also assisted with medical emergencies and vehicle incidents, supporting the community beyond security matters.
Most Affected Areas
The areas with the highest number of incidents were:
- Sidwell – 11 incidents
- Newton Park – 5
- Walmer – 4
- Gqeberha Central – 4
- Bothasrus – 4
Sidwell experienced the highest activity this week, while other suburbs saw moderate levels.
Areas With Minimal Activity
Several suburbs recorded just one incident for the entire week, including:
Mount Croix, Manor Heights, Seaview, Lovemore Heights, Bridgemeade, Bluewater Bay and others.
While this is encouraging, consistency and vigilance remain key.
Busiest Day
Sunday, 22 February, was the busiest day of the week, with 24 incidents logged.
This reminds us how quickly activity can increase in a short period of time, which is why constant visibility and response readiness matter.
The Bigger Picture
Overall incidents decreased compared to the previous week, but theft and attempted theft remain the primary threats across the metro.
Atlas Security continues to maintain strong visibility, rapid response and proactive patrol coverage across Nelson Mandela Bay.
We encourage residents and business owners to stay alert, report suspicious behaviour immediately and ensure their security systems are fully operational.
Safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue to protect our communities.
Read More
Arrest: Stolen Vehicle Recovered
November 6, 2025
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, Atlas Security Armed Response Officers played a key role in recovering a stolen vehicle and assisting with the arrest of a suspect wanted in connection with fraud and vehicle theft. Atlas Security’s Control Room received a phone call early hours of the morning regarding a white Mazda that had been stolen in South End the previous day. Our Armed response units and Atlas Security Armed Response Officer, Bravo 16 were notified to remain on alert for the vehicle.
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Two Suspects Arrested After Copper Theft in Despatch
March 17, 2026
Two suspects detained. Copper theft stopped in progress. That was the outcome when Atlas Security armed response officers responded to an incident in Despatch late Monday night.
Theft Prevention Leads to Arrest at a Primary School in Kariega
January 7, 2025
Atlas Security apprehended a suspect at a primary school in Kariega after detecting suspicious activity on CCTV. The swift response prevented further theft, and SAPS arrested the suspect on charges of burglary and possession of break-in equipment.