There will be no tolerance for Guy Fawkes-related violence and intimidation in Bonteheuwel today.
This was the warning from ward councillor Angus McKenzie, who said acts such as smearing children with paint, using paint bombs, firing fireworks, and any behaviour that endangered residents would not be tolerated.”We have been on the streets all morning and we will remain relentless all day to protect our families and our community,” McKenzie said. “This is a clear warning – anyone planning to use Guy Fawkes as an excuse to terrorise residents or damage property will be held accountable.”
Identify offenders
McKenzie said they were working with Neighbourhood Safety Officers and Law Enforcement to identify offenders and remove any threat to public safety. “We will not allow our children or motorists to be put at risk. We call on every resident to report suspicious behaviour immediately and to stand with us in protecting our neighbourhood,” he said.
McKenzie said visible patrols and targeted enforcement would continue until every person was safe from these dangerous acts.
Problematic
Guy Fawkes celebrations have been problematic in Bonteheuwel for years, with unsuspecting motorists targeted with paint bombs, causing extensive damage to their vehicles.The City of Cape Town warned last week that it would take strong action against residents using fireworks illegally.
Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said fireworks were only allowed where formal applications for displays had been approved. “The sale of fireworks is also regulated – anything else is illegal and our staff will act against anyone found breaking the law,” Smith said.
He said fireworks were not only very noisy, but caused immense trauma to animals and communities already battling gun violence. There was also the risk of fires and injuries, placing unnecessary burden on emergency services.
