This is a day that many residents and law enforcement officers look forward to – the launch of the Holiday Safety Plan in the Overberg, which was held on Monday in Hermanus.
The day, which was attended by some of the neighbourhood watches in the district, the South African police as well as other law enforcement departments such as the fire and rescue services and also ambulance services, emphasises the importance of the Holiday Safety Plan.
During his welcome message, the Mayor of the Overstrand, Archie Klaas, said no one is above the law and they will all go out of their way to provide a service. He also jokingly mentioned that he is a resident of Zwelihle in Hermanus and said he would not want to trade his neighbourhood for a safer neighbourhood.
“The lauch is a personal moment for me as someone who lives in Zwelihle, an area that is problematic when it came to crime stats. This is an opportunity to reflect and listen to what is going to be done in dealing with crime in this district. I chose to remain where I stay,” Klaas said. “That is why it is a pleasure for me to welcome you all in the Overberg.”
The Mayor of the Overberg District Sakkie Franken also expressed the importance of safey during the last meeting with Klaas. During this meeting he emphasised the importance of feeling safe in the town you are residing in. Klaas also said that this lauch is being supported by all the mayors in the Overberg.
The Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Policing, Major General Luyanda Damoyi, addressed the public and shared the focus areas with all. “During this time of the year there is a lot of movement in the Overberg. Let us increase our visibility all over the Overberg,” he said.
According to him one of the focus areas is Gender Based Violence. “During this time of the year Gender Based Violence also increase and we must be there for the victims,” he said. Another focus area is the prevention of robberies like cash and transit. “People must feel free to do their shopping without fear of being robbed.”
According to Damoyi they are also going to focus on illegal fire arms, liquor and drug trafficking. “Other areas are road safety, unlawfull businesses like selling fake clothing and bylaws enforcement.”
Tourists and visitors must feel safe to visit the Overberg. “Visibility is impor- tant and with the help of other departments we will make sure that the Overberg is a safe place to visit.”
