Despite the ongoing crime in the Laudium/Erasmia area, many residents are now feeling the pinch of digging deeper into their pockets to pay for private security guards to monitor the street gates erected in various parts of Laudium and Erasmia.
About two years back, following the failure by the local police and the respective CPFs to effectively combat the surge of crime in the area, residents had no choice but to implement urgent measures to stop the crime wave, by implementing immediate street closures via the installing of security gates in various neighbourhoods. Residents in the specific areas were then ‘forced’ to fork out money for the installation of the gates, for hiring of security guards to man the gates that remained accessible for visitors and residents entering the closed off areas and for the very costly application to the Council for the eventual permission to officially close off certain streets. In the beginning of ‘operation street closure’ the response from residents was overwhelming, with financial pledges pouring in. However, as months passed, due to financial constraints, less and less residents were willing to pay their monthly subscriptions, resulting in the ‘noble project’ starting to fail. First to fall was the Erasmia area, where most areas now do not have security guards manning the gates. Now, the area around 7th Ave and 5th Ave, in Laudium, also have no guards manning the security gates, as many residents refuse to pay their monthly subscriptions. However those who have been paying their monthly fees regularly and on time, are disappointed that the guard services have been terminated. The security guards who were stationed at the gates
have now been removed by Khan’s Security, as their contracts have apparently not been
renewed due to many residents not paying their monthly subscriptions, according to a spokesperson from Khan’s Security.
Avesh Patel of 5th Avenue, Laudium, told the Laudium Sun, “I was shocked when I got to know about the removal of the security guards at the gate of 5th Ave. Every day when I pass by, I am used to seeing a security guard stationed at the gate, monitoring who is passing by and who is entering the area. That presence always gave a sense of safety and control on our street. It feels very different and honestly quite worrying for many of us who live in this area. The residents, as far as I know, were contributing towards the payment for the security services, so I am not sure what exactly went wrong with the security company that had deployed the guards on our street. There has been no clear communication or explanation given to us and that is what makes the situation even more frustrating. This situation is totally unacceptable because the absence of guards at the gate will definitely create opportunities for more criminal activities to take place on our street. The guards were not just sitting there; they were actively monitoring movement and ensuring that suspicious individuals were kept away. Without that level of monitoring, anyone can easily enter the area without being noticed, and that puts all residents at risk. The security company was supposed to organise a meeting with the residents if there were any issues, whether related to payments or any other concerns. We, as residents of 5th Ave, would have been willing to sit down and resolve any problems in a proper and respectful manner. However, making such a major decision without consulting us is completely wrong and shows a lack of professionalism and responsibility from Khan’s Security. This is not good at all and reflects poorly on how they handle matters that directly affect people’s safety.”
Rajeev Mooloo of Jewel Street, told the Laudium Sun, “There has always been a reassuring feeling whenever guards were visible within the gated area and stationed at the entrances. Their presence created comfort, awareness and a sense of protection for everyone living nearby. News regarding the removal of security personnel from 5th and 7th Ave is of concern, as such changes affect daily life and peace of mind within the community. Understanding possible disagreements surrounding payment arrangements or administrative matters may explain certain decisions, yet the absence of proper
communication leaves uncertainty among residents. Clarity, openness and accountability remain essential when dealing with community safety, especially in areas where controlled access plays a vital role in maintaining order. Transparency from the responsible security
company would have ensured that everyone remained informed and prepared for any adjustments affecting protection measures. The presence of guards was not only about observation, but also about prevention, awareness, and reassurance. Without that layer of oversight, vulnerability increases and risks become more apparent. Entry points now lack monitoring, making it easier for unfamiliar individuals to move freely without verification or scrutiny. Addressing concerns collectively could have helped avoid dissatisfaction while maintaining security standards expected by the community. The removal of guards without sufficient explanation creates a perception of neglect and weakens confidence in those responsible for ensuring protection. A safer environment depends on visibility, communication and consistent measures that prioritise well-being above all else.”
of guards without sufficient explanation creates a perception of neglect and weakens confidence in those responsible for ensuring protection.”
Makbul Patel of 7th Ave, in Laudium, told the Laudium Sun, “I have just learnt about the removal of the security guards from 7th Ave and this situation is deeply concerning. The
absence of guards creates uncertainty about who is entering the area and who does not belong here, which raises serious safety concerns for everyone living nearby. Controlled access previously provided reassurance, awareness and a sense of order within the neighbourhood, but that stability has now been disrupted. Fear among households is increasing, as the lack of monitoring at entry points opens opportunities for unwanted movement and suspicious activity. Existing challenges related to house break-ins and other criminal incidents have already affected daily life and this change may worsen those conditions significantly. Without proper oversight, the environment becomes more vulnerable, leaving residents very uneasy about their surroundings. Community protection
should always remain a priority, especially in areas already facing security concerns. Removing guards without clear communication or engagement creates dissatisfaction and weakens trust. This decision reflects poorly on the responsible security company, as it overlooks the importance of maintaining safety measures that directly impact the well-being of residents. A secure neighbourhood depends on visible protection, structured control, and responsible management.”
neighbourhood depends on visible protection, structured control and responsible management.”
Another resident of 5th Avenue, who did not want to be named, told the Laudium Sun, “There have been sufficient warnings and reminders to residents to pay their monthly subscriptions as there was a shortage to cover payments for the security guards. While many residents were paying, it was not enough to cover expenses, as there were many other residents who ironically could afford to pay, but just bluntly refused to pay, which led to the security company removing their guards out of the area, as they were not being fully paid.”