The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nelson Mandela Bay has put together a five-point plan that can be rolled out immediately to ensure the safety of tourists and residents during the Metro’s summer season.
The DA has indicated that Gqeberha’s beachfront, the biggest drawcard for tourists to visit Nelson Mandela Bay, has never been more dangerous.
Rautenbach further stated that tourism over the summer season is one of the biggest income generators and job creators in the metro, and that if tourists stay away, the economy will fail.
DA’s proposed plan to keep the beachfront safe:
1. 24-hour metro police satellite office at the beachfront to be operational;
2. Increased metro police and safety and security vehicle and foot patrols at the beachfront;
3. Increased crime prevention operations, in partnership with the metro police, traffic department, SAPS, private armed response companies, neighbourhood watches and all other relevant stakeholders;
4. Repair all faulty streetlights along the beachfront, as well as the lights on the pier and walkways;
5. CCTV cameras, back-up office, and a response unit to be introduced along the beachfront.
The DA intends delivering this plan to Mayor Gary van Niekerk, requesting that he sees to its immediate implementation.
South African Police Services Colonel Priscilla Naidu said that the festive season is synonymous with the increase in certain categories of crime, and this should serve as a reminder or warning that we all need to be wary, and avoid becoming a statistic.
“There have been sporadic incidents of crime reported on the promenade, and certain areas remain a hotspot.
“Victims of fraud and theft are mostly tourists who are conned at ATMs when making withdrawals. In these cases, their cards are swopped and exorbitant amounts of cash are withdrawn.
“Another common trend is when tourists are told that they need a permit for parking, especially when they are sightseeing at the Donkin Reserve. They are then taken to the ATM and scammed,” said Naidu.
“Robberies, theft from motor vehicles, and other theft usually occur in the afternoon and at night, over the weekends.
“During this festive period police will be beefing up on visibility and foot patrols along the beachfront. People are advised to set limits on their daily withdrawals.
“Tourists must be security conscious at all times, and take note of their surroundings when leaving their hotels or other accommodation,” she added.
Naidu advised tourists and citizens to be vigilant and always have in their possession the local police station number should they wish to verify any suspicion or doubt. They should never go to any banking institution to withdraw cash to pay to any person that requests payment for services they do not understand.
“Instead, when in doubt, contact the police or the tourism office for clarity and assistance,” she concluded.
