In a swift response, Cape Town law enforcement officers apprehended a suspect within 30 minutes after two tourists were pepper-sprayed and robbed at knifepoint on Signal Hill on Thursday.
Coordinated Effort Leads to Arrest
City safety and security MMC JP Smith praised the team’s rapid action. “Armed with a description, members immediately set off across the mountain, collecting stolen items discarded along the way,” he said. Using the direction of discarded items, officers coordinated with additional units to intercept the suspect.
The suspect was arrested, and stolen belongings, including an iPhone wrapped in foil—likely an attempt to block GPS tracking—were recovered. The victims were reunited with their possessions.
Heightened Safety Measures
Smith emphasized that city officials remain vigilant across Cape Town’s tourist hotspots. “Our members are deployed to hiking trails, popular tourist attractions, beaches, and swimming pools,” he said. Additionally, traffic enforcement teams are active across Cape Town’s vast 12,000-kilometre roadway network.
Hiking Emergencies Over the Festive Period
The arrest comes amid a busy festive period for emergency services in the Mother City. Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) reported multiple hiking incidents over the past few days:
- Lion’s Head Trail (Christmas Day): A 41-year-old US hiker collapsed and was rushed to hospital after being alerted by passersby.
- Platteklip Gorge: A 54-year-old Dutch hiker collapsed and required airlifting to safety.
- Lion’s Head (Thursday): A 33-year-old hiker from Centurion collapsed due to heat. She was treated by paramedics and transported to hospital.
Ensuring Tourist Safety
Cape Town’s scenic trails and tourist sites draw thousands of visitors during the festive season, but city officials urge caution, particularly in high temperatures. Enhanced patrols aim to deter criminal activity and provide swift assistance to those in need.
