Calling for law enforcement at Thompson’s Bay

Residents near Thompson’s Bay beach have raised concerns about people drinking and braaiing at the beach.

Their biggest worry is that with the absence of law enforcement the situation could get out of hand as thousands of beachgoers are expected to flock to KwaDukuza beaches this festive season, with up to 1500 expected per beach.

“Broken bottles getting into the tidal pool are a problem and fires are both dangerous and leave a mess on the beach. We believe that the presence of police or security at this beach could make a huge difference,” said resident Jonathan Clarke.

In the past police have clashed with visitors drinking and having a braai at the beach, which is against the municipal bylaws.

While most Ballito beaches have UIP security officers, Thompson’s Bay had been left without protection.

KwaDukuza municipality media liaison Sipho Mkhize said KDM crime prevention officers will be patrolling all beaches throughout the season.

“Besides that, there will be beach monitors who will report any suspicious behaviour to our law enforcers. However, if there is a special request for security measures, residents can report the issue to our crime prevention in writing,” said Mkhize.

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The residents had also employed a cleaner to assist the municipal workers who are working at the beach and have dealt with the faded signage.

Balwin Properties have sponsored new signs spelling out what is and what is not allowed on the beaches.

“We believe the signs will make a difference and the lifeguards or police now have something that they can point out when telling people not to drink or braai at the beach. The signs were approved by KDM and thank you to the sponsors and all those involved in trying to deal with the problem faced by residents at the beach,” said ward councillor Tammy Colley.

According to KwaDukuza’s bylaws, no one is allowed to have a braai where there is no braai facility and drinking in public is prohibited.

The only beaches where there are braai facilities are at Tinley Manor, Blythedale and Zinkwazi.

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