Safety budget scrutiny

OPPOSITION parties have questioned why the DA-led City continues to pour millions into reactive policing rather than focusing on prevention after mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, boasted that Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis would be tabling a draft budget with "the largest investment into the safety and security directorate since the establishment of LEAP (Law Enforcement Advancement Plan)".

- NICOLA DANIELS.

The parties said despite costly initiatives year on year, crime levels remain persistently high, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the City's approach.

Half of the ten police stations that recorded the most murders in South Africa were located in Cape Town, according to the second quarter 2024/2025 crime statistics.

Smith posted on social media that: “Following the success of LEAP and Project 1000, the City is now ready to take it to the next level.

The Mayor will be tabling the Draft Budget for 2025/26 at the Council meeting, which includes a huge investment in Safety and Security. Here's what we propose for inclusion in the draft budget, dedicated Metro Police Area Teams, additional deployment will focus on the N2 and surroundings as a major arterial road, prioritising commuter safety. Investing in more uniformed, armed enforcement staff with policing powers. From protecting community facilities to escorting and safeguarding contractors while performing vital service delivery functions, these enforcement units will ensure our progress never stands still.