City's biggest festive safety plan yet targets hotspots

CAPE Town is heading into the festive season with one of its largest safety deployments yet, a move officials say is designed to protect residents in gang-affected communities while managing packed beaches, roads and tourist hotspots.

- MURRAY SWART

The City confirmed it will maintain its daily support for SAPS in gang-violence hotspots, with more than 1000 LEAP officers deployed in shifts.

At the same time, the City is bolstering its summer plan with widespread visibility on beaches, braai areas and major attractions including Table Mountain. Road users can expect checkpoints across the metro, and the Highway Patrol Unit will monitor major routes around the clock. An extra 40 officers will focus on the N2, forming part of the 700 new officers deployed since September. This includes dedicated neighbourhood policing in every ward.