Gone are the days when the Bult CBD was used as a hunting ground by criminals who prey on unsuspecting victims.

Phase 1 of the “Take Back the Bult” project of the Cachet Park CID NPC – a joint venture between the North-West University (NWU) and the JB Marks Municipality – has been completed.

A total of 18 envisaged CCTV cameras in the demarcated Bult area have been installed and the area is now under 24-hour surveillance.

Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for campus operations in Potchefstroom and the chairperson of the board of directors of Cachet Park CID, expressed his appreciation and congratulated the organisation on completing the first phase.

“A total onslaught against crime is now in full swing to ensure student safety, and the Bult will no longer be a safe haven for criminals,” says Prof Balia.

The scope of the security services provided by the organisation also includes the monitoring of known suspects, enhanced lighting in demarcated areas, providing visible policing and joint operations with the community policing forums and South African Police Services. Other services include optimal security utilisation of the newly erected security centre in Cachet Park, crime prevention activities, and providing primary armed response.

The NWU is determined to keep its students safe on and off campus and looks forward to the next phase of the project.