THE City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security directorate are looking to equip their staff with body cameras to identify skelms in their fight against violence on the Cape Flats.
Last week, three incidents highlighted the dangers faced by Metro Police and law enforcement.
Last Tuesday, two Law Enforcement officers had to be freed by colleagues after they were prevented from leaving the station deck in the CBD.
Just hours later, three Traffic Officers sustained injuries – including one who was bitten on the arm – when bystanders became riotous during a routine traffic stop.
Then last Thursday, a Metro cop was shot in the leg when bystanders became riotous during a search of a property in Elsies River.
Chairperson of the Safety and Security Portfolio Committee, Councillor Mzwakhe Nqavashe, says: “These are the incidents that we were informed about – odds are more staff were targeted during this period.
“Even our firefighters aren’t guaranteed their safety when responding to incidents. It is simply outrageous that people feel they can turn on first responders.
“Our Directorate will also offer our assistance to the South African Police Service’s investigations into these attacks and we are committed to ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to book.”
Councillor Nqavashe adds: ‘We’re also confident that the acquisition of body worn cameras will not only be a deterrent to other would-be attackers, but can also assist in identifying suspects for prosecution.
“It’s truly unfortunate that the very communities who cry out for increased enforcement are often the very ones standing in the way of it.”