How to strengthen security at churches; AfriForum introduces security assessment for churches

Increasing crime at churches, during which congregants are attacked and robbed in certain cases even during the service, has increased drastically in recent times. That is why AfriForum’s division for Community Safety has released an assessment document that churches can use as a guideline in tightening their security.

Robbers often consider churches to be a soft crime target and the increasing incidence of attacks at churches is indicative of this, according to AfriForum. More than 1 500 congregations approached Faith Mazibuko, the MEC for Community Safety in Gauteng, for example, in November last year to create awareness about the prevalence of this crime at churches.

According to AfriForum, the basic right to a safe environment is being undermined by these crimes and it is not possible to simply stand idly by while the government and law enforcers maintain an indifferent attitude. With this guide, AfriForum wants to empower churches to act proactively by conducting an audit of the safety of the church and its members, and by having measures ready to improve members’ safety.

The organisation also invites churches to contact AfriForum neighbourhood watches in their communities to achieve greater cooperation in terms of safety. Incidents of crime at churches have recently shown that churches are not prepared for the dangers of crime. In contrast, a prepared church – which has and follows the necessary safety measures – is a difficult target for criminals and the criminals will most likely shift their focus. Moreover, a prepared church can effectively reduce the risks and impact of criminal activities.

This guide therefore offers guidelines so that churches, their staff and their members can be prepared for these types of risks – including burglaries, armed robbery, vehicle theft and arson.

“In the past, the government honoured its responsibility with respect to the safety of communities and there was no need for security companies or other institutions to look after the safety of churches. Church leaders are therefore not necessarily focused on analysing risks and implementing measures. This gap in terms of safety must therefore be dealt with urgently, as crime is on the rise and that is why AfriForum has released this assessment tool,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety.

The assessment document is available free of charge in English and Afrikaans on AfriForum’s website. Click here to get involved with your local AfriForum neighbourhood watch.