A runner was stabbed during an attempted robbery on Table Mountain on Thursday 9 July. The incident renewed calls for stronger safety measures on one of Cape Town’s most popular hiking destinations.
The attack happened between 07:15 and 07:30 in the Deadman’s Tree area near Tafelberg Road.
According to volunteer outdoor safety advocacy group Take Back Our Mountains, the incident is the latest in a series of violent attacks. These attacks affect the mountain.
Runner escapes attack
The victim, Roger Pearce, said he fought off three attackers and escaped with a stab wound to his forearm.
“I miraculously was able to fend off and escape without too serious an injury (forearm stab only) and they didn’t get my phone or anything else,” Pearce said.
“I powerfully felt the protection of the Lord, as how does one man stand against three with knives?”
Pearce also shared Psalm 121:8, saying: “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Calls for stronger security
Take Back Our Mountains said the latest attack highlights the ongoing threat of violent crime on one of Cape Town’s biggest tourist attractions.
“Table Mountain is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, yet violent crime on the mountain continues to threaten both locals and visitors,” the organisation said.
The group said international tourists have increasingly raised concerns about safety on the mountain.
It called for improved security measures, including CCTV cameras monitored around the clock. The group also called for a stronger visible ranger presence at popular trailheads.
“These are important measures to help improve visitor safety and protect South Africa’s tourism industry,” the organisation said.
The group also warned that continued attacks could undermine visitor confidence ahead of the peak tourism season.
“If more isn’t done to address crime, incidents like these will continue to affect both public safety and visitor confidence.”
Take Back Our Mountains urged hikers, runners and cyclists to avoid travelling alone. Instead, people should use the trails in larger groups whenever possible.
Police investigate
Western Cape police have opened a case following the incident.
Provincial police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk said the victim reported that three unidentified men approached him. This occurred while he was on his morning run.
Cape Town Central police registered a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm. The investigation continues.
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