SAFETY and security will be tight around the Greyville Racecourse precinct and the rest of eThekwini in the lead-up to the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, July 5.

The eThekwini District SAPS spokesperson, Captain Carmen Rhynes, said various law enforcement agencies have been deployed ahead of the big day to ensure the safety of revellers and horse racing enthusiasts set to flock to the city. “Planning between the SAPS, event organisers and other security agencies has been on-going for weeks,” said Rhynes.

“A pro-active approach, which resulted in successful events being hosted previously, has been adopted for this event. Police officers and other personnel will be deployed in and around the stadium as well as around the city to tackle the problems which might disrupt the event.”

The HDJ is a premier horse racing and fashion extravaganza that attracts approximately 50 000 visitors to Durban for the big weekend. eThekwini Municipality mayor, Cyril Xaba, said, “Visitors are guaranteed a safe stay in the city with high police visibility, particularly around the Greyville precinct and other strategic sites across the Municipality.”

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He said enforcement agencies have developed an integrated safety plan, supported by the private security industry to ensure that the event and related activities occur seamlessly. Rhynes said the police and other law enforcement will be heavily monitoring the event and warned spectators and horse racing fans to “behave themselves and enjoy the entertainment”.

“Those indulging in alcohol must be dropped off and picked up, or alternatively use available modes of public transport. Those who will be found drinking and driving will be arrested. While on the race course, one must be aware of criminals who may be mingling with the crowd, so it’s important not to leave any valuables unattended,” added Rhynes.

Traffic management measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth running of the event. There will be several road closures in the CBD from Friday late until the horse-racing event ends on Saturday.

“The main roads that might be affected include DLI Avenue, Avondale and Gladys Mazibuko. Avondale and Haden Roads will be closed off, so residents will have to go up on Haden to enter or exit, to use side roads. The following roads will also be affected: Mitchell Crescent, 5th and 6th Avenues and Clarence Road. The whole vicinity of Greyville Racecourse will be busy this weekend. We advise the public to use alternative routes to avoid delays,” said Rhynes.

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