- Crime in Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) decreased from 96 muggings in 2023 to 60 incidents last year, though safety remains a concern, according to Friends of Table Mountain (FoTM).
- The City of Cape Town has increased security resources, including law enforcement officers, drone surveillance, and CCTV cameras, while collaborating with SANParks to improve safety.
- FoTM and the City continue efforts to address illegal camping and fire hazards, alongside ongoing initiatives to further reduce crime and enhance safety for both locals and tourists.
Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists, but ongoing concerns about crime have persisted, despite recent improvements.
While mugging incidents and attacks have decreased from the record highs of 2023, the 60 reported crimes last year still remain a significant concern, according to Friends of Table Mountain (FoTM), a local non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving the park.
In 2023, TMNP saw an unprecedented crime spree, with a record 96 muggings, making it one of the most dangerous periods for visitors. However, FoTM reported a drop in incidents last year, with 60 crimes recorded so far.
FoTM chair Andy Davies expressed relief that the peak of 2023’s crime wave was not repeated, crediting the improvement to several factors.
FoTM has called on South African National Parks (SANParks) to allocate more funding to TMNP’s safety and security, given that the park had generated an income of R430 million last year, with only a fraction, R107 million, spent on the park’s operations. “Its income should be reinvested to ensure visitor safety,” said Davies.
While SANParks holds the constitutional responsibility for managing TMNP, the City has taken a proactive role in addressing crime within the park.
JP Smith, Mayco member for Safety and Security, explained: “The City of Cape Town has committed substantial resources to crime prevention, with a visible presence of Law Enforcement officers stationed across the park.
“Around 43 metro, Law Enforcement, and traffic officers are deployed from 04:00 to 20:00 to ensure security.”
He said the City had also invested in advanced technology, such as drone surveillance, to monitor inaccessible areas and CCTV cameras for crime prevention and investigation.
“We are working closely with SANParks, the police and other local security providers through initiatives such as the Table Mountain Safety Forum.
“This collaboration has been essential in improving the safety of TMNP, and we will continue to share information and resources to ensure the park remains a safe place for both locals and tourists.”
Beyond violent crime, illegal camping and the associated fire hazards have also become a growing concern.
FoTM has raised alarms over the increasing number of people illegally camping on Table Mountain, often using fires that pose significant risks, especially in areas prone to high winds.
Davies explained: “Rangers regularly find smouldering embers and littered campsites left behind by illegal campers.”
In response, the City’s enforcement officers are addressing this issue, guided by crime data and public reports.
Public awareness of fire hazards is also a key element of the City’s strategy. “We encourage all visitors to remain vigilant and mindful of fire safety when enjoying the park,” said Smith.
The City continued to engage with community groups and neighbourhood watches to strengthen safety measures across the park.
Looking ahead, the City has outlined plans to improve crime prevention and safety in TMNP further.
Smith added: “The South African Police Service remains the primary authority for crime prevention, but the City will continue to implement additional safety programmes, including those successfully used during the festive season last year.”
He emphasised the City’s focus would remain on providing enhanced security to protect both locals and visitors.
For those planning to hike in the TMNP the City has reiterated the importance of following safety guidelines.
Visitors are encouraged to avoid hiking on secluded trails, particularly before sunrise or after sunset, and to hike in groups or on trails with visible enforcement presence. “Any suspicious behaviour or incidents should be reported immediately to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre,” Smith urged.
While the reduction in muggings and attacks on Table Mountain is a positive step, Davies and Smith agree more needed to be done to ensure the park’s safety.
“FoTM and the City of Cape Town are committed to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of visitors,” Davies concluded. With increased collaboration and resource allocation, there is hope that TMNP will continue to improve as a safer destination for hikers and tourists alike.
For further information on safety protocols, visit the City of Cape Town’s website or the Friends of Table Mountain’s website for updates on ongoing efforts.
