The deployment of LEAP (Law Enforcement Advancement Plan) officers in the Cape Town CBD last year has yielded some positive results with over 1 000 people arrested for various crimes.
A total of 100 law enforcement officers were deployed to the City Bowl in July last year to beef up policing in the precinct.
Cape Town Central Police Station was ranked number one in the 17 community-reported serious crimes category in the fourth quarter crime statistics released recently. The 17 community-reported serious crimes category, includes contact crimes, contact related crimes, property related crimes and other serious crimes.
A total of 3 079 cases in 17 community-reported serious crimes category were reported at the station between January and March this year.
Over the past few years, the Cape Town CBD has seen a sharp increase in criminal activities such as drug dealing, theft, and assault which was exacerbated during the Covid-19 lockdown.
The deployment of additional officers was aimed at bolstering patrols and implementing targeted operations that would tackle crime.
This followed the successful implementation of LEAP officers in various priority stations across the city.
Perpetrators were arrested for, among others, the possession of narcotics, possession of stolen goods, dealing in drugs, robberies, possession of dangerous weapons and illegal immigration.
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, says priority crimes including murder, attempted murder, possession of firearms and ammunition and hijacking also featured frequently at the Cape Town Central Police Station.
Smith says the success of this deployment is a testament to the hard work, dedication and collaboration between various departments including law enforcement, Metro Police, Traffic Services and the South African Police Service.
“I am pleased to announce that the dedicated efforts of the law enforcement service, in collaboration with metro police, traffic services and the police 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 says while this is an 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.”
Smith explains that the safety intervention in the CBD has also seen the introduction of 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.
Mark Truss, chair of the Cape Town Central Policing Forum, says theft out of motor vehicles and common robberies are still one of the biggest crimes.
He says Adderley, Long and Bree streets and the Golden Acre are the hotspots.
According to Truss, the deployment of the LEAP officers made a huge difference in opportunistic crimes. However, he says more can be done. “The additional resources coming in from the City through their LEAP programme and various departments from law enforcement to Metro Police to traffic has had an impact. It has made a difference but we can do so much more.”
Truss cautions people to be always alert.
“If you are leaving Green Point from a meeting for example and you had your laptop with you when you get to your car put it in the boot of your car. Then drive to your next appointment. Do not get to your destination and then get out of your car and put it into the boot because people see that.
“You need to know where your next stop is. Things like your camera, laptop or jacket need to be locked away. Criminals are not stupid. They watch. There are eyes and ears all over the place. If we can be more cautious, we will definitely reduce the amount of crime taking place”.
According to Smit: “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 Mitchell’s Plain and Bellville CBDs and with enhanced safety initiatives in the Wynberg CBD,” concludes Smith.
To report suspicious activities, dial 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.
