Following public concern about the overall safety at Westpark Cemetery, including reports of shootings, robberies, and hijackings in the surrounding area, Johannesburg City Park and Zoo (JCPZ) says security measures are in place to help protect visitors and maintain order.

JCPZ spokesperson Jenny Moodley said the entity acknowledges the concerns and past instances of shootings and robberies at the cemetery, and wants to reassure the public that safety at the cemetery remains a priority. She said that security personnel are stationed at the cemetery entrance, while park rangers conduct scheduled patrols throughout the grounds. JCPZ also works with law enforcement agencies, particularly over weekends, to improve visibility and responsiveness.

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Surveillance systems are also used to monitor activity at the cemetery. CCTV cameras are currently installed at the administrative building to oversee key operational areas. Moodley said the expansion of surveillance technology, including wider CCTV coverage or drone patrols, is being considered. However, drone monitoring remains costly and must be evaluated within municipal budget constraints.

Park rangers and JCPZ personnel are present during burial services to provide oversight and support to families, while security staff monitor access points and maintain visibility around key areas.

The entity continues to maintain and repair cemetery infrastructure, including elements linked to safety and security. However, some upgrades may take longer due to factors such as weather conditions, limited resources, insurance requirements, and municipal procurement processes.

To help prevent vandalism and theft, JCPZ has advised families to avoid installing expensive materials on headstones, as these can attract criminals. Visitors are encouraged to report suspicious activity to security personnel when leaving the cemetery, and to use reputable stonemasons for memorial installations.

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Moodley noted that JCPZ manages more than 2 175 public spaces across Johannesburg, including parks, nature reserves, cemeteries, and other public amenities. Because of the scale of these facilities, it is not possible to maintain a visible security presence in every area at all times.

Instead, the entity relies on scheduled ranger patrols, private security personnel, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to monitor activity and respond to incidents. At Westpark Cemetery, JCPZ staff also work closely with funeral homes and undertakers to ensure that burial services follow cemetery regulations and operational procedures.

According to Moodley, this co-ordination helps maintain order during funeral gatherings, and ensures that burials are conducted in a safe and dignified environment.

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