A recent spike in robberies along Kloof Nek Road, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill has prompted a group of concerned Camps Bay residents to unite and seek ways to reduce the trend.
The concerned group recently held a meeting to discuss possible solutions. The meeting was attended by residents and some community safety structures.
It was organised by Chris von Ulmenstein, who is also a tour guide. She expressed a concern about the surge in crime incidents.
“As a Tour Guide, I am concerned about the number of armed hold-ups that are occurring of locals and tourists. It is a dreadful threat to all of us with tourist businesses in our suburb. Two German tourists were attacked at gunpoint in Camps Bay.
“I went to assist them. The woman was so frightened, she gave her phone and bank card. She was shaken up. I don’t think we will see them in South Africa again.”
Regarding incidents along Kloof Nek Road, residents want warning signs to be put up.
“We want crime-hotspot warning signs because people walking there are vulnerable. Once you are approached by a criminal there is no one that can come to your rescue.”
Von Ulmenstein said they also want to start an awareness campaign on all the hiking and walking social media groups to educate people about safety.
A woman was robbed of her iPhone, specialised S-Works bicycle among other things following a robbery at Rhodes Memorial on Sunday 9 March.
On Saturday 22 March a man was attacked with a knife close to Plum Pudding on Table Mountain.
The attacker allegedly pushed the cyclist off his bicycle and threatened him with a knife. The following day (Sunday) two women were held at gunpoint near the bottom of the Kloof Corner trail.
The perpetrator allegedly demanded one of the women to unlock her cellphone and threatened to shoot if they did not comply.
Take Back Our Mountains, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to fostering safety, environmental preservation, and community engagement on Table Mountain and its surroundings, expressed a concern about increased robberies.
“Our daily users are feeling scared, angry, and disheartened as they can no longer safely enjoy their activities on the mountain. Recently, we received numerous messages from both men and women, including victims of these robberies, expressing their frustration and fear.
“The situation is especially troubling because Table Mountain, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, continues to operate with inadequate security.”
The NPC called for the implementation of a robust safety plan designed specifically to address and combat crime.
“Many people are willing to contribute their ideas and support, but we are all frustrated by the lack of action and constructive solutions being implemented.
“It is the same trails and parking areas that are targeted year after year, leaving the community feeling helpless.”
The NPC urges mountain users to be vigilant and take extra care while out on the trails.
JP Louw, South African National Parks (SANParks) spokesperson, they, the police and the Camps Bay CID have launched individual and joint operations to improve safety around the Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, Pipe Track and The Glen area of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
“Over the past few weeks, we have noted an increase in armed robbery incidents reported in the Lion’s Head and Signal Hill precinct of TMNP and have coordinated information gathered from these incidents and eyewitnesses.
“We understand the concern these incidents have caused among visitors and residents and want to assure the public that we are taking these matters seriously.”
According to Louw, they are conducting both joint and individual operations. “These operations include increased patrols, intelligence-led interventions, and coordinated efforts to apprehend suspects.
The safety and security of park visitors remain our top priority, and we are committed to taking proactive measures to curb criminal activities in these areas.”
He shared some safety tips:
1. Hike or cycle in groups of four or more, as there is safety in numbers.
2. Access the park between sunrise and sunset and avoid evening hikes.
3. Wear appropriate clothing, including shoes and protection for all weather conditions.
4. Make sure someone knows your departure time, planned route, and expected time of return.
5. Use freely available mobile applications that can track your movements for safety purposes.
6. Record emergency contact numbers displayed on park signboards in case of an emergency.
7. Ensure your phone is fully charged before your visit to make emergency calls if necessary.
8. Regularly check SANParks’ social media pages for updates on route closures, maintenance work, or areas to avoid due to fires or other hazards.
People are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or safety concerns to law enforcement authorities on 086 110 6417.
