By Nkosenhle Sibisi
North Beach residents have raised concerns over the alarmingly high crime rate that has plagued their community. They claim that criminal acts such as muggings and stabbings have become a norm in their community.
Lisa Hams, a North Beach resident said she feels unsafe when she takes regular walks on the promenade.
“I used to take afternoon walks with my headset on the promenade but now I am forced to leave my phone and headset at home because they attract criminals from a distance. Crime in North Beach is a serious issue, sadly we can’t stop it completely because people from different areas come to the beach to enjoy the activities and that encourages criminals to pounce on unsuspecting victims. Everyday you hear of a person who has been mugged, stabbed and we also hear of theft out of motor vehicles,” said Hams.
Soraya Shaik, North Beach Community Police Forum chairperson said that the beachfront precinct has in the recent months seen a drastic increase in crime perpetrated against residents or visitors.
“People are being accosted and mugged of their belongings on their way to school, work and during their strolls on the beach. The stealing of mobile devices and snatching of handbags, leaving victims wounded and traumatised, have become increasingly prevalent. The community requires a sense of safety and security. Residents would like to be able to leave their homes without the fear of being attacked or robbed,” said Shaik.
Muzi Maphumulo, Durban central SAPS communications officer said: “Crime around the beach is a big concern to the police. It has a negative impact on tourism, and the people who live in the area. It also has a negative impact on businesses.”
Sharmaine Sewshanker, ward 26 PR councillor said that she is aware of the crime in North Beach. She raised concerns over the beach security unit which was removed on the promenade.
“With the security unit on the beach front, things were better because there was security visibility all over the promenade and visitors and residents felt safe. When the security unit contract was terminated, it gave criminals carte blanche to do what they want. Another issue we are facing is cameras that are not working. This is the city’s problem because they are the one responsible for the upkeep of the area. I get the reports monthly from metro police and disaster management saying that some of the cameras are actually manned. North Beach is a big boost to the city’s economy so we need to make sure that we have got measures in place to make people feel safe in the area,” said Sewshanker.
