The Atlas Security Control Room has reported a drop in incidents this week. This drop is directly linked to the community’s vigilance as suspicious individuals are being reported which allows for proactive patrols to take place in the hotspots. 

Criminals often use general foot traffic through suburbs to blend in as they scout their next target. Being vigilant is not just reporting every single person walking in the street, it’s about noticing when a person looks out of place. Pedestrians generally use the same route every morning and afternoon so one gets to recognise the faces that frequent the streets.

When being effectively vigilant, one comes to recognise the regular pedestrians by their body language, so when a truly suspicious individual enters the area they will stick out like a sore thumb. Their behaviour will include aimless movement, looking at all the activity around them, looking nervous and skittish when people notice them etc. This is the behaviour that needs to be immediately reported. 

What happens when they are reported? 

Suspicious individuals unfortunately cannot be charged with anything if they have not committed a crime. Walking in the streets is not illegal, they have freedom of movement and can move through whichever area they want to at whatever speed that they want to. 

Armed Response can however make them feel uncomfortable by making it very obvious that they are being watched. This often forces them to abort their criminal intentions  and move on to another area to scout for easier targets.