ITWeb (Johannesburg)
Damian Clarkson
28 July 2004
Johannesburg — Anti-crime cellphone network eBlockwatch has launched a new service designed to assist children and students, should they find themselves in a precarious situation.
eBlockwatch founder Andre Snyman says the Student Buddy service will make use of the company's existing 15 000-member network, situated throughout the country. "Basically we are offering a network of people that will look after students in trouble, whether they are in danger or in the wrong.
"For example, if a student were to get arrested, they could contact the Student Buddy contact centre, and we would ensure they were treated OK," he says.
"We wouldn't get them out of jail," adds Snyman. "We are there to look after them, not to obstruct justice."
He notes the need for such a service has been highlighted by the recent Leigh Matthews kidnap case, which received widespread media coverage. Should a child be reported missing, details of the child - and a picture when possible - could be sent to members' cellphones or e-mail addresses in order to track them down.
Two young girls have already been tracked down using the eBlockwatch service, Snyman says.
The Student Buddy service was designed in conjunction with Avis car rental and Vodacom Look4me.
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