eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba joined a multidisciplinary law enforcement operation in Isipingo, south of Durban ahead of the Easter long weekend
Image: Thuli Dlamini
The eThekwini Municipality has ramped up preparations for an influx of visitors for what is expected to be a bustling Easter holiday period, with Mayor Cyril Xaba assuring both residents and holiday-makers that comprehensive plans are in place to ensure a safe and incident-free weekend.
The mayor joined a multidisciplinary law enforcement operation in Isipingo, south of Durban, focused on improving road safety and maintaining order during the busy travel season.
He emphasised the importance of visible policing and warned against unlawful behaviour, particularly drinking and driving.
During the operation, authorities stopped approximately 2,000 vehicles. Of these, 100 motorists were fined for vehicle defects, while 15 were cited for moving violations. Several summonses were also issued. In addition, police made 22 arrests related to outstanding warrants and detained five drivers.
During a multidisciplinary law enforcement operation in Isipingo, south of Durban, 100 motorists were fined for vehicle defects
Image: Thuli Dlamini
To strengthen safety measures across the metro, more than 1,000 police officers have been deployed throughout all regions. Their responsibilities include patrolling key tourism destinations, major freeways, shopping centres, and places of worship.
“Our intention is to minimise road crashes and crime in general. We cannot achieve this alone but we need full cooperation from road users to ensure they abide by the rules of the road,” said Xaba.
The municipality is anticipating a significant boost in tourism, with projections of up to 1.2 million visitors expected over the Easter period.
Xaba highlighted that 20 bathing beaches remain open and safe for swimming, supported by 42 public swimming pools across the city.
To enhance beach safety, 200 lifeguards have been stationed along the coastline. He added that the newly formed Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit will patrol 100 kilometres of coastline using various methods, including foot patrols, horseback units, vehicles, and bicycles.
“We are delighted that 20 bathing beaches remain open and safe for swimming, and 42 public swimming pools are available across the city. To protect bathers, 200 lifeguards have been deployed along the coastline. In addition, the newly established Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit will patrol 100 kilometres of our coastline on foot, horseback, in vehicles, and on bicycles,” he said.
Residents and visitors can also expect a range of entertainment options, with the city organising several signature events. These events will be closely monitored by police working in partnership with private security companies to ensure public safety throughout the holiday.