Vumacam, a leading provider of camera-based security technologies, has welcomed the City of Johannesburg’s introduction of new by-laws governing the use of CCTV as a crucial step in improving public safety. The proposed regulations will support the development of a centralized database of all registered CCTV cameras located on private properties that have a view of public spaces.
The approval of these by-laws marks a significant milestone for technology-driven security solutions in South Africa and represents a major achievement by the City of Johannesburg. Vumacam has long advocated for clear, effective regulations that provide certainty to residents, law enforcement, and security providers, ensuring the responsible use of surveillance technology.
While Vumacam has not yet seen the final draft of the by-laws, it has actively participated in the consultation process, emphasizing the need for greater clarity on access to CCTV footage. A key concern is defining the rights of private security companies to access surveillance data versus the rights granted to public sector law enforcement agencies. Vumacam believes that ensuring effective access for all legitimate and authorized parties is essential to maintaining the momentum in crime prevention efforts.
Vumacam’s extensive CCTV network, deployed at strategic locations across Johannesburg, Gauteng, and other key regions, has proven to be a powerful tool in enhancing crime prevention and response efforts. By integrating private security with public law enforcement, the network has demonstrated the effectiveness of technology-driven crime prevention strategies. Enhanced surveillance has contributed to higher interception rates, faster police response times, and the ability to prevent crimes before they escalate.
Recent crime statistics highlight the impact of Vumacam’s system, with a month-on-month improvement in crime interceptions and numerous successful arrests. In one notable instance, ten dangerous criminals were apprehended in a single day last September through coordinated efforts between Vumacam and its security partners.
Since its inception, Vumacam has prioritized strict data protection and compliance, initially aligning with European GDPR standards in the absence of local regulations and later adhering to South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) once it was enacted.
As the City of Johannesburg moves forward with implementing these new surveillance regulations, Vumacam looks forward to further engagement on this important legislation and to continuing its collaboration with the city and law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.
