JOBURG'S BUDGET AIMS TO COMBAT RAMPANT CRIME AND IMPROVE SAFETY

City announces new plans to tackle scourge

- PULE MAKGALE [e-mail]

THE Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD), once a vibrant epicentre of finance and commerce, is now grappling with an alarming rise in crime that casts a long shadow over its efforts for revitalisation. But there is a glimmer of hope, with the city yesterday announcing new plans to tackle the scourge.

As the police force employs various strategies to enhance security, the persistent issues of theft, robbery, and hijackings have put both residents and businesses on edge.

The CBD's reputation for being a high-crime area is not unfounded, as reports indicate a worrying trend in criminal activity.

Victims recount harrowing experiences, from being held at gunpoint during daylight hours to having their vehicles forcibly taken in broad daylight.

The subject of the high crime rate in the province and around the country featured prominently in the White House last week when the South African delegation was hosted by the US government.