Plans to ensure the safety of all residents of and visitors to the Overstrand during the festive season were launched amid great fanfare.
Officers of the various departments comprising Overstrand Municipality’s Public Safety Directorate were out in full force at the launch, that was also attended by Overberg District Police Commissioner Major General Miriam Mochologi, Provincial Traffic Chief Thembile Qunta, Hermanus Police Commander Colonel Gustav Tamboer and local councillors.
The TS Birkenhead Cadettes kicked the event off on a high note with an impressive display of discipline and skill as they marched onto the grounds where the attendants were gathered.
Chaplain Mark Robson of 1 Life Rescue Services opened the programme with a scripture reading, prayer and moving blessing for the men and women in uniform who will work hard during the festive season to ensure the safety of all holidaymakers.
Deputy Mayor Alderman Lindile Ntsabo welcomed everyone and invited them to take a moment to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of and those still suffering from gender-based violence (GBV) and abuse.
He urged the community to take a stand against GBV by speaking out about the issue. “We believe that GBV should be addressed 365 days of the year. We must raise our voices for those who cannot speak for themselves. By speaking out, we can all contribute to breaking the cycle of violence and abuse.”
Ntsabo, who is also the Mayco member for public safety, urged the men and women in uniform to remember that they play a crucial role in serving, protecting and upholding the law and thanked them for always being “ready to respond when duty calls”.
In her keynote address Rabie outlined the operational strategies contained in the safety plan, which is aimed at crime prevention, enforcing the law and ensuring a safer environment for both residents and visitors throughout the holiday season.
This, she said, will be achieved through the coordinated efforts of the municipal law enforcement and traffic units and fire and rescue services in conjunction with the local police, provincial traffic, neighbourhood watches, special rating areas (SRAs) and various security and emergency services to prevent crime and ensure safety across Overstrand’s roads, communities, beaches, nature reserves, cliff paths and central business districts (CBDs).
Some of the points contained in the Safety Plan that were highlighted by Mayor Rabie include the following:. Increased surveillance and law enforcement visibility at Fernkloof Nature Reserve; . Random roadblocks that will incorporate number plate recognition technology to identify stolen vehicles, as well as those with outstanding fines or warrants of arrest;. The deployment of law enforcement officers to identified crime hot spots;. Ensuring motorists always use their seat belts and that drivers refrain from using their cellphones while operating a vehicle.
