In a global context increasingly concerned with security challenges, the significance of robust surveillance systems cannot be overstated, especially in regions afflicted by vandalism and crime. Despite the growing adoption of video surveillance technologies, their high cost remains a barrier, particularly in lower-income areas, notably in African cities where surveillance implementation is reportedly minimal. This study introduces a cost-effective, real-time surveillance system, integrating the ESP32 microcontroller with an OV2640 (OV) camera and a Pyroelectric Infrared (PIR) sensor, leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The system is designed to detect motion, alert users via SMS in the event of an intrusion, and transmit real-time video using the TWILIO Application Programming Interface (API), which facilitates global communication through SMS, voice, and wireless services. Upon deployment and testing, it was observed that the system effectively corresponds the visual images on the Ismart platform with the actual real-time video captured within the coverage area. The motion sensor unit demonstrated reliable functionality. A notable outcome of this implementation is the operational cost, which is assessed to be less than 50% of existing surveillance systems, thereby offering a more affordable alternative without compromising efficiency. The proposed system's efficacy and cost-effectiveness position it as a viable solution for a wide range of applications, including domestic settings, banking institutions, office premises, and airports.