An increased presence of law enforcement in the Cape Town CBD has resulted in the arrests of over 1000 additional suspects in the last year.
Also read: SA crime statistics indicate violent crime is still on the rise
This is according to mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, who expressed his ongoing concern over a dramatic increase in serious offences, including drug dealing, theft, and assault, in the city centre during and after the Covid pandemic.
Recognising the urgent need to address this, the city deployed additional law enforcement resources strategically to the Cape Town CBD to bolster patrols and implement targeted operations that would tackle crime head-on leading to over a thousand arrests since deployment.
This followed the successful implementation of the proof of concept in the form of LEAP in various priority stations across the city.
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Possession of narcotics, possession of stolen goods, dealing in drugs, robberies, possession of dangerous weapons, and illegal immigration featured prominently in the reasons for arrest.
‘I am pleased to announce that the dedicated efforts of Law Enforcement Service, in collaboration with Metro Police, Traffic Services and SAPS as well as the City Centre Improvement District, have resulted in a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to maintain peace and safety in the Cape Town CBD,’ Smith said yesterday.
‘I am proud to see the recent deployment has led to the successful arrest of over 1000 individuals involved in criminal activities.’
He added that while the city celebrated this accomplishment, the fight against crime is an ongoing battle.
‘We remain committed to implementing long-term solutions that address the root causes of criminality, including socio-economic challenges and substance abuse.’
‘Additionally, we will continue to work closely with our partners in the criminal justice system to ensure that those arrested face the full force of the law and that our efforts have a lasting impact.’
The intervention in the CBD also introduced new systems such as the Fusion Centre which brings together the CCTV, information management and different agencies in a command centre located at the Metro Police Cyclops CCTV centre in the CBD.
‘The City is committed to creating an environment that fosters economic growth, social cohesion, and a sense of security for all who live, work, and play within CBDs across the Metro, with crime prevention initiatives currently running in Mitchells Plain and Bellville CBDs and with enhanced safety initiatives in the Wynberg CBD.’
Smith urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities they may witness by phoning 021 480 7700 from a cell phone or 107 from a landline.
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Also read:
LEAP arrests 1 233 during May in Cape Town’s most dangerous areas
Picture: JP Smith / Facebook