RESPONSE TO BEACH ATTACKS

Date posted: January 9, 2018

We have a serious crime problem on our beloved Noordhoek beach. There have been multiple attacks on the beach over the last few months. These have included a number of stabbings, with the most recent one being very nearly fatal. The majority of attacks have been focused around the Kakapo wreck but some attacks have occurred on the Noordhoek side of the beach.

The lack of resources, coordinated response and prosecution by authorities has resulted in continued attacks. The suspects are armed and have shown their level of skill and disregard for life in carrying out attacks. It is extremely dangerous for volunteer community members to patrol due to the threat of quickly being isolated in the remote areas where attacks are occurring.

Komwatch and Chapman's Peak Neighbourhood Watch are raising funds for a security response to stop these attacks occurring on the beach. This will include a strategic, proactive plan to apprehend and prosecute the suspects - urgently. We have set up a task team who will be working closely with SanParks and SAPS to ensure effective support by our neighbourhood watch responders. A minimum amount of R 50 000 is required. The funds will be used for a response team, investigation purposes and prosecution. Just apprehending suspects is not enough - we must ensure they are locked away for the crimes committed.

Please note:

1. Not all details of the plan are being released at this stage to protect those involved in the response


2. Volunteers could unwittingly upset any ongoing operations by authorities and are advised to avoid the area.


3. Assistance from patrollers will be coordinated through the relevant neighbourhood watch


4. Bear in mind that Kakapo wreck falls within a National Park - general rules and regulations of SanParks can be accessed here - https://www.sanparks.org/assets/docs/tourism_reservations/park-regulations.pdf


5. Rogue vigilante action is strongly discouraged and any illegal activity will be reported to the relevant authorities. Please work through the structures in place, namely your local NHW, who are doing their best to assist relevant stakeholders in preventing further attacks and ensure that the culprits are identified and prosecuted.

Donations can be made either to the CPNW or KomWatch Bank accounts, details below:

CPNW

• Account name: Chapmans Peak Neighbourhood Watch


• Bank: Standard Bank


• Account: 270 364 439


• Branch: Fish Hoek 036009


• Ref: Beach_YourSurname

KOMWATCH

• Account name: Kommetjie Neighbourhood Watch


• Bank: ABSA Bank


• Account: 40 6840 8761


• Branch: Longbeach Mall 632005


• Ref: Beach_YourSurname

In order to get this initiative started immediately, Komwatch and CPNW are each pledging R10 000. To ensure continuity and the smooth running of the project it would be fantastic if all donations could be received within the next two weeks. We will share more information with you as soon as we can.

Thank you to those who have already donated, your generosity is always appreciated

Komwatch and CPNW Committee