Two suspects were arrested after a group of mountain bikers were robbed at knifepoint in the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
Also read: City to ramp up safety measures amid rising crime in tourist hotspots
On Monday evening, information was received of a robbery that had taken place on the jeep track close to Military Road and on the slopes above Tamboerskloof.
A description of the assailants was quickly circulated among the various role players within the TMNP Safety Forum.
A short while later, SAPS arrested a suspect matching the description, while the second suspect had disappeared.
Following up on information, the Law Enforcement Tourism Unit, accompanied by members of the SANParks SEAM team, tracked the accomplice to a dwelling within Erf 81, a site on the slopes of the mountain that has been previously invaded and unlawfully occupied.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city at half the price? Let these great offers inspire you and fuel your imagination! Get them here.
The suspect was detained and escorted to SAPS, where he was positively identified as the known accomplice and was arrested.
On social media, Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said that it was the strength of the recently formed collaboration efforts that allowed information to flow quickly and for a coordinated, joint response between all role players.
‘Special mention must also be extended to ward Cllr Francine Higham, who has remained resolute in bringing the various civilian structures into the collaboration efforts, including that of the neighbourhood watches, hiking and trail enthusiasts and that of community safety groups,’ read his Facebook post.
‘We now need to ensure that these perpetrators are brought to justice for their crimes and for the fear bestowed upon users to the national park.’
‘We will provide our SAPS with any additional investigative resources needed to ensure they are able to hand the National Prosecuting Authority a solid case that is needed to secure a conviction.’
Smith added that ‘the property referred to as Erf 81 was under the control of national government and previous requests to address the unlawful occupation upon that site has been left unanswered.’
‘Today’s action must again prompt national government that the unlawful activities occurring on this site can no longer left unattended,’ he added.
‘Any person who may have been victim to a previous attack on any of the hiking trails around Lions Head, irrespective if it was reported to SAPS at the time and who may believe that they would be able to identify the perpetrators from a photo lineup, should please contact the SAPS investigating officer immediately.’
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under R100 000. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Picture: JP Smith / Facebook