By Obrein Simasiku
WINDHOEK – Security companies say they cannot fail the public and are ready to render their services countrywide this festive season amid the increased service demand this time of the year.
New Era spoke to security companies G4S, Omega, Namibia Protection Services (NPS) and Independent Security Service (ISS).
“The past has taught us a lesson and now we know how to handle our clients during the festive season when demands are high. We normally have a backup plan to cater for the high demand,” said the manager of Omega Security Services, Len Lowing.
Dries Kennemeyer of G4S said they have more security measures in place and an effective action plan for the festive season, which will make it easier for the company to reduce security risks for clients while they are away on holiday.
Lowing added that Omega offers long-term contracts – as opposed to G4S and Namibia Protection Services that render a service according to client specifications.
Lucy-Ann de Koe of Namibia Protection Services said they can offer an ad hoc service depending on client preference if it has been arranged in advance. She further noted that their service contract ranges between 30 days to 36 months.
However, the security companies were reluctant to divulge how much they charge per service and rather said it depends on the type of contract and service the client wants, adding that other services security companies offer include alarm installation, which enable the security company to respond rapidly in cases where the alarm is activated during a burglary.
Kennemeyer of G4S said it has that particular service outsourced to various installer companies except at Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Henties Bay where they do provide alarm installation services.
“Fees at these towns are influenced by the client need and therefore vary,” said Kennemeyer.
However Namibia Protection Services does install alarms but said they cannot reveal through the media how much it costs to install an alarm.
Moreover none of the companies had special offers for the festive season stating that in December and January employees’ wages increase due to public holidays and Sundays, thus in no way can they make special offers to clients especially with regard to payments but rather they adjust their charges to maintain business.