As Cape Town beaches become busier with warmer weather, there is a rise in beach-related crimes and near-drownings.
Brandon Janeke from Heideveld saved two women from drowning at Bloubergstrand, earning him widespread praise.
Authorities are increasing safety measures, including lifeguard deployments, as the community calls for more law enforcement to handle the surge in incidents.
As the weather heats up, local beaches along Melkbosstrand to Milnerton are seeing a surge in visitors eager to soak up the sun. However, along with the crowds comes an increase in troubling incidents.
Law enforcement is reporting a rise in beach-related crimes, including disorderly behaviour and alcohol consumption in parking lots. At the same time, lifeguards are battling an uptick in near-drownings, as more people venture into the water without taking proper precautions.
READ | Bodies of two men found at Lagoon Beach in Cape Town
There were several near-drownings reported on Cape Town beaches, one of a remarkable act of bravery when 28-year-old Brandon Janeke from Heideveld didn’t hesitate when he saw two women struggling in the rough waters at Bloubergstrand Beach on Saturday.
Without a second thought, Janeke risked his own life to dive into the dangerous surf, successfully pulling both women to safety.
His courageous actions have earned him widespread praise, with locals hailing him as a hero. One onlooker described Janeke as “absolutely amazing,” adding that Cape Town could use more selfless individuals like him. His quick thinking and bravery saved two lives on Saturday.
Lifegaurd deployment
Janeke said their were no lifeguards visible at the beach.
“People should at least get a lifeguard on that beach if anyone is going to attempt to swim there,” he said.
Ward 107 councillor, Jonathan Mills, said lifeguard presence is mainly during peak season, and the City is in the process of recruiting seasonal lifeguards.
“The City will continue with its deployment plans. The sea is a very powerful force, thanks a lot to the community’s quick action and organisation who responded,” he said.
In various social media posts, the community of Table View thanked Janeke for his bravery.
“Well done. You are a hero. They need to put signs up to say that there is a dip where the waves break. When I was a child, the waves pulled me into the dip but luckily it pushed me out again. It felt like it was about 5 foot deep and between a meter or two wide then it got shallow again. I’m not sure if it’s still like that, but if it is, they really need to warn people. I’m sure most people don’t know. Especially if they’re coming from different areas. Just a thought. Brandon, you’re amazing,” one of the posts read.
Responding to near-drownings
Community Medics said their volunteers responded to a drowning incident on the Bloubergstrand beachfront late Saturday afternoon.
“Two patients were rescued by bystanders, and both were transported to hospital in a serious but stable condition. Thank you, Taurus Medical, Life EMS, Netcare 911, Metro EMS, Fire and Rescue and Table View Neighbourhood Watch, for being on scene. Please remember, if you experience a medical emergency, call 087 230 0404,” Community Medics said at the time.
On Monday, Ward councillor Paul Swart highlighted the spike in crime along the coastline.
ALSO READ: One dead, two missing at sea
He told the newspaper that beaches in Melkbosstrand was packed, resulting in an increase in public drinking.
Many beachgoers reported theft, vandalism, and disorderly conduct. “Many incidents stem from illegal drinking in beach parking areas, where groups gather and often cause disturbances.”
The community is calling on law enforcement to step up patrols to address the growing concerns.
Milnerton Surf Lifesaving Club said with the lovely hot weather and winter beach currents, their professional lifeguards had their hands full over the weekend.
“There are several rip currents and gullies operating at Milnerton beach at the moment and the lifeguards were called upon to return our new lifeguards-in-training to shore who were caught in the currents. Thank you to everyone for your assistance. Soon these candidates will be the ones doing the help-outs,” the club said.
- Please be aware of the risks associated with our beach in Melkbosstrand which includes, strong currents and riptides, rough waves and slippery rocks.
- Supervise closely, especially near water.
- Teach children to swim between designated flags.
- Watch for warning signs and flags.
- Educate teens about rip currents and how to escape.
- Ensure children wear life jackets (if needed).
- Swim with a buddy.
- Be mindful of changing weather conditions.
