Although the majority of unrest across the country has died down, local security personnel have confirmed that there will be increased vigilance for the upcoming long weekend.

The Greater Ballito Operations Centre (GBOC) met on Wednesday with Saps, KDM Community Safety, private security, community policing forums (CPF) and neighbourhood watches, Ihawu Lethu farm watch, the Dolphin Coast Taxi Association, the Ballito UIP and ward councillors to collaborate on security preparations for the coming long weekend and into next week.

“Saps and KDM confirmed that they have an operational plan in place to ensure law enforcement presence at the major beaches across the area as well as heightened patrols and visibility,” said GBOC CEO, Warwick Chapman.

Saps have also extended their longer shifts from 1 August to ensure heightened visibility and faster response times should something occur.

“We wish to remind community members that Saps and KDM are the only law and bylaw enforcement authorities and that members of the public or private security must not take any matters into their own hands.”

The GBOC have also requested that residents exercise restraint with regards to sharing fear-mongering voice notes and other messages to community WhatsApp groups.

If you have reliable information, contact the GBOC, your local CPF, neighbourhood watch or private security company.

“We are hoping for an incident-free weekend and a calm week ahead.

“We urge all residents to be mindful of the very difficult and stressful time we have all been through and to steer clear of any social conflict at this time of recovery,” said Chapman.

To contact GBOC with security alerts, you can WhatsApp 066 164 0826.