Increased law enforcement planned for Woodstock following rise in crime

Provincial and City officials have discussed the extension of community safety measures in force on both the R300 and N2 highways, to include a section of the N1 highway now also at Woodstock.

More than 20 reported smash and grab incidents have been reported in the vicinity of the Lower Church Street turn-off in recent weeks, with both motorists and cyclists targeted.

In a joint statement, acting Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC Tertius Simmers, and Mayco member for Safety and Security JP Smith said at a meeting last week between officials, steps were discussed to extend community safety measures.

Avenues explored include increased visible policing by forces employed by the provincial government and City, closer liaison with SAPS to improve deployment in the area, and urgent action to get Transnet, specifically National Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, to act against unlawful occupation on their land.

“The planned increased policing on the Woodstock section of the N1 will build on the model tested on the N2 and the R300. We must keep the law-abiding residents of the Western Cape safe. We will report back to our citizens when all plans have been finalised and the funding confirmed,” Simmers said.

“Already we have increased our visibility and stepped up patrols in the vicinity using our area-based resources, but a permanent solution is required and we remain committed to working with all stakeholders in helping to ensure safety for all who use the area,” added Smith.

Earlier this month cyclists using the Lower Church Street routes and in the vicinity of the railway were urged to report incidents of crime to police after attacks reportedly spiked in the area.

Police had confirmed a case of robbery with a firearm was opened for investigation at Woodstock police station after a 60-year-old cyclist was robbed of his personal belongings.

Cape Times