No permit, no fireworks
The 5th of November is Guy Fawkes day. Guy Fawkes day is celebrated all around the world, but for Western Cape citizens, it is going to be a bit different as the city has advised that anyone who wishes to discharge fireworks should apply for a permit.
The City of Cape Town appeals to residents to refrain from
the destructive behaviour that has become synonymous with Guy Fawkes.
Last year, the Public Emergency Communication Centre
recorded 238 calls about the illegal discharge of fireworks, and 17 about the
illegal sale of fireworks.The highest number of calls were received from Beacon
Valley, Lentegeur and Bonteheuwel.
Numerous incidents went viral on social media, of adults and elderly persons
being chased, threatened and assaulted by mobs of youngsters, brandishing socks
filled with paint, shoe polish, but also sharp objects designed to cause harm.
In recent years, there have also been increasing reports of vehicles being
stoned as they pass through some suburbs.
With Guy Fawkes falling on a Friday this year, it increases the risk that the
criminality will spill over into the weekend. The City’s enforcement services
will increase its patrols on the day in a bid to curb lawlessness.
“Many residents, especially pet owners, oppose the use of
fireworks and animal welfare organisations have their hands full on these
nights. Residents are reminded that only national government has the authority
to ban fireworks,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and
Security, Alderman JP Smith.
Done By: Yandisa Qwabe
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