SANParks have erected warning signs after several reported mugging incidents in the Oranjezicht section of Table Mountain.
Spokesperson for SANParks, Merle Collins, confirmed this week that signs had been put in place following the incidents.
“The safety signs were erected to warn hikers to walk in groups and that we are experiencing an increase in criminal activity within the area where the signs have been placed. This is not something new, we have erected similar warning signs over the years.”
She added that there had been two incidents reported in the Molteno area. Ms Collins said the places where the signs were put up were determined because of crime-related incidents and hot spot areas.
“Patrols are conducted with SAPS and Metro police to make it a safer zone. The challenge is that once we secure an area, crime displacement takes place.”
Her advice to hikers was to be vigilant, to walk in groups and avoid an obvious display of valuables and let someone know where you are going. She also asked hikers and visitors to report all crime to the SAPS and programme the emergency number 086 110 6417 in their phone.
Gardens resident Bernard Reisner, said he was concerned by the number of reported and unreported incidents that have occurred recently. He said he had been in contact with various stakeholders, including SANPArks, about having the signs put up in the area.
“SANParks, in co-operation with the other stakeholders, have apprehended a few muggers in the mountain in this area, who have been threatening the public with knives and guns. There have been numerous reported and unreported cases of people whose cell phones, cash and other belongings have been stolen.” He added that he would continue to engage with the various role players on the matter.
Cape Town Central police spokesperson, Captain Ezra October, welcomed more signage in the area. He said they’ve also had some challenges with people breaking into cars in the area. He encouraged people to report all incidents.
