The City of Cape Town says its law enforcement agencies will increase patrols in areas that have proven problematic during Guy Fawkes Day celebrations
In a statement, the City said the City's Public Emergency
Communication Centre received 334 calls last year relating to the illegal
discharge of fireworks and 61 calls about the illegal sale of fireworks. Just
over 80% of these calls were received on Guy Fawkes.
Some of last year’s incidents include a group of children
that attacked a Waste Mart truck in Macassar, pelting staff and the vehicle
with stones and balloons filled with paint and other liquids. A Metro Police
vehicle was also damaged during this particular incident; Attacks on motorists
along Prince George Drive, but also pedestrians; A motorcyclist sustained minor
injuries when a bottle was hurled at him, and he fell off his motorcycle.
The City’s mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith,
has reminded residents that permits are required for fireworks displays, adding
that there are no designated sites for the setting off of fireworks.
He asked the public to report illegal or anti-social
behaviour.
‘’We have to change the narrative around Guy Fawkes, but
this is not something that the City alone can do. It ultimately boils down to
common courtesy and respect, and this needs to be inculcated at home. Our
appeal is to residents in hotspot areas to stand up against the destructive
behaviour that has become associated with this day. If you see anything
suspicious, or are aware of mob attacks or the illegal discharge and sale of
fireworks, please report it to the City's Public Emergency Communications
Centre on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline,’' said the
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.
PICTURE: PixabayDone By: Mitchum George
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