As the festive season is drawing near, Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) is cracking down on the illegal sale of fireworks.
In a joint safety operation with law enforcement, police and neighbourhood watches, Steenberg CPF had a “walk-about” through the business district of Retreat on Saturday 29 October, confiscating illegal goods which included Viagra and fireworks.
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Leanne Reid, spokesperson for Steenberg CPF, said the operation was to create safety awareness.
“The operation raised awareness of safety linked to upcoming events including 16 days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children and the festive season.
“A large haul of illegal fireworks was confiscated along with Viagra and other enhancing tablets and store-owners issued with fines.
“Extortion was also a key focus point with local businesses and shops that were checked for illegal goods.”
She added that the safety operation included checking for vehicles parked illegally.
“Cars were also checked and fined for illegal parking on sidewalks or pedestrian crossings, and unlicensed drivers.
Steenberg CPF is urging parents not to allow their children to roam the streets and commit criminal acts with fireworks.
“Steenberg CPF wants to remind parents that under South African law, parents and carers who allow their children to roam the streets unsupervised, committing criminal acts, can be held liable for their children’s conduct.”
Reid added that negligent parents and carers can be charged for the criminal conduct of their children and stand to lose their Sassa grants.
“Please discourage them from getting involved in this kind of criminal misconduct.
“Always be aware of where your children are and what they are doing.”
Steenberg CPF is urging schools to talk to children about the seriousness and consequences of misconduct.
Meanwhile, Ward 72 councillor Kevin Southgate said over time they have tried to discourage people and businesses from selling fireworks.
“I support the safety operation that was undertaken over the weekend by all the security structures.
“Businesses have been given ample notice and we have been warning them, year in and year out.
“It would appear that some of them are still trying to get around the selling of fireworks, which has clearly indicated in the last number of years, that it actually poses a huge safety and security risk not just to the residents and their properties but also to animals.”
He added that he hopes the confiscation of illegal fireworks and the fines businesses received would discourage others.
“The fact that some people have been found in possession of fireworks and fined would hopefully send out a strong message in terms of the request that local shop owners are not permitted to sell fireworks.”
To report illegal and anti-social activity to police dial 10111 or the MySAPS app.
For illegal discharge of fireworks, the community can call 107 from a landline or 021 480 770 from a cellphone for the City of Cape Town’s emergency contact centre.
