Atlas Security Crime Update 16 – 22 February 2026
Crime
_16_-_22_February.jpg)
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
Copper and Water Meter Theft on the Rise: Stay Alert, Stay Protected
February 12, 2025
Copper and Water Meter Theft on the Rise: Stay Alert, Stay ProtectedAtlas Security has noted a recent increase in copper theft and stolen water meters across multiple suburbs. This particular crime is not isolated to one area—suspects tend to target a neighbourhood, removing two to three water meters at a time before moving on to the next location.
Crime Creeps Up, but Newton Park Shines: A Week of Shifts in the Bay’s Crime Trends”
October 23, 2025
Atlas Security’s latest crime statistics for the week of 13 to 19 October 2025 reveal an overall increase in incidents across Nelson Mandela Bay, with a 26% rise compared to the previous week. A total of 135 incidents were recorded, and 12 arrests were made during the period.
Atlas Security Weekend Arrest Report: 24 - 26 January 2025
January 27, 2025
Atlas Security's rapid response led to multiple arrests this past weekend, including incidents of attempted robbery, property damage, and break-ins across key locations in Walmer and Algoa Park.