Security tightened around Table Mountain amid spike in muggings
A recent spike in the mugging of cyclists and hikers on Table Mountain has led to concerns over the safety of tourists in the run-up to the festive season.
Over the weekend, three athletes were mugged during the RMB Ultra-trail Cape Town's 160km race.
In response, a joint operation has been launched between SanParks, the South African Police Service and the City of Cape Town law enforcement to tighten security.
“The Table Mountain Safety Forum with the three authorities, as well as the provincial authority, meets weekly. The aim of this forum is to ensure streamlined and optimal deployment of resources to target crime and to share intelligence aimed at informing operations,” said SANParks spokesperson Lauren Howard.
“Table Mountain National Park has a sea and mountain team, which conducts special operations targeted at both crime against visitors as well as environmental crime. Rangers are deployed on foot, bicycle, vessel and vehicle patrols daily.
Howard said there will be an additional 70 tourism monitors deployed in December, which will be allocated to different sections of the park.
Meanwhile, Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account encouraging tourists to take safety precautions while touring.
"We encourage hikers and tourists to be vigilant and take precautions while you enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Town.”
Table Mountain & Lion's Head are as busy as ever. So our @CityofCT Law Enforcement officers and @SANParks rangers are working as a team to keep our mountains safe for everyone to enjoy 👮♂️🤍
— Geordin Hill-Lewis (@geordinhl) November 26, 2023
We encourage hikers and tourists to be vigilant and take precautions, while you enjoy the… pic.twitter.com/6eQRiVAWRK
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