Durban - Durban’s beaches look like they will be the safest place to be this festive season as more than 500 law enforcement officers will be on patrol to ensure all revellers have “a safe and memorable time”.
Mayor James Nxumalo rolled out the red carpet for visitors on Wednesday when he revealed the city’s operational and strategical plans for the festive season public.
“Law enforcement agencies, which include the metro police, South African Police Service, and security personnel, have been deployed in different areas to ensure that patrons are able to enjoy themselves in a safe and responsible manner,” said Nxumalo.
“Police will be divided into beach, foot and motor patrol groups and will be deployed 24 hours to strategically deal with crime prevention, traffic enforcement and by-law enforcement. The targeted areas are the north, south and central Durban beaches.”
Christo Swart, chairman of the festive season management committee, said that two additional CCTV centres had been opened to increase security in the city, one in Pinetown and the other at the beachfront. The CCTV centre at the disaster management centre would also help spot criminal activities.
The number of lifeguards has also been increased, with 58 seasonal lifeguards supplementing the 48 permanent lifeguards.
“It is important for bathers to co-operate with them and swim only in designated areas and during the specified times,” Swart said.
The swimming times are between 6am and 6pm for beaches and swimming pools.
About 4 million visitors are expected to flock to the city until the middle of next month when children go back to school.
Among the holidaymakers were Andries Nel, from Pretoria, accompanied by Mariesa Wille, a German exchange student.
Nel said that every year, in the last week of November and the first week of December, he was in Durban on business and ensured he enjoyed the beach before the big rush. - The Mercury