HERMANUS PUBLIC PROTECTION
NEWSLETTER
Keeping our community safe and clean, together
APRIL 2026
In this edition:
- Easter Period Overview | A Safe Easter for Hermanus
- SAPS Annual Crime Statistics | Crime Statistics for the Hermanus Precinct Show an overall decrease
- Operational Successes | HPP Patrols and Thermal Surveillance Lead to Key Arrests
- Meet the Team | Spotting HPP on Patrol
A Safe Easter for Hermanus
The April Easter holiday period was a positive one for the Hermanus Special Rating Area (HSRA), with no major incidents reported despite a noticeable increase in visitor numbers. Public spaces, beaches, and the CBD were all busier than usual, helped along by warmer-than-expected weather that kept people outdoors for longer.
From an operational perspective, the period called for sustained visibility and quick response. Patrols were stepped up, and coordination with our partners remained steady throughout. The absence of significant incidents speaks to a proactive approach on the ground, as well as the continued cooperation between stakeholders and the community. This collective effort is also reflected in the recent SAPS annual crime statistics.
We are particularly proud of our team for their diligence, professionalism, and the consistency they demonstrated during a demanding period. Their commitment, together with strong community support, continues to play an important role in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
Annual Crime Statistics for the Hermanus Precinct Show an overall decrease
Recent reporting on the annual crime statistics for the Hermanus precinct indicates an overall decrease in reported crime of approximately 4.9%, marking a second consecutive year of decline. Colonel Gustaf Tamboer, Station Commander, attributes this to coordinated efforts among law enforcement stakeholders and expressed appreciation for their continued commitment.
Encouraging reductions were recorded across several serious crime categories. Contact crime declined by approximately 1.7%, with notable decreases in murder, attempted murder, aggravated robbery and sexual assault.
Property-related crime showed the most significant improvement, decreasing by 24.2%, driven largely by reductions in both business and residential burglary. Vehicle theft also declined substantially, by approximately 48%.
However, increases were recorded in assault and rape incidents. This may, in part, reflect improved reporting linked to ongoing local awareness initiatives.
Areas of concern include a gradual increase in commercial crime and shoplifting. Online fraud and banking scams fall within the category of commercial crime and remain prevalent. Residents are urged to exercise caution when using banking applications and responding to unsolicited calls or messages.
Practical measures to reduce exposure to banking fraud
- Do not share PINs, passwords or one-time passwords (OTPs) with any person, including individuals claiming to represent a bank.
- Do not approve transactions on your banking app unless you initiated them.
- Be cautious of urgent or threatening messages requesting immediate action.
- Verify all banking-related communication by contacting your bank directly using official contact details.
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or SMS messages.
- Regularly monitor bank accounts for unauthorised transactions.
- Ensure devices used for banking are secured with updated software and appropriate security features.
If you suspect that you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately to secure your account and report the matter to SAPS by opening a formal case.
Working Together to Keep Hermanus Safe
1 April to 30 April 2026
Reports Received
394
Arrests
2
Waste Collected (KGs)
1 375
HPP Patrols and Thermal Surveillance Lead to Key Arrests
April operations reflect strong, proactive performance by the HPP team, with visible patrols, coordinated response, and effective use of technology contributing to positive outcomes.
A cable theft incident in Northcliff at the end of March resulted in a power outage affecting Dolphin and Hoy Streets. HPP’s thermal camera technology was instrumental in detecting and tracking the suspects movement, enabling a rapid, coordinated response.
Through joint efforts with HPP, SAPS and Overstrand Law Enforcement, one suspect was arrested and the stolen cable recovered, while two suspects evaded arrest. This incident highlights the critical role of technology, combined with active patrols, in addressing infrastructure-related crime.
On 8 April, HPP responded to a report of a suspect entering a property in Westcliff. Through swift action and area knowledge, the suspect was located nearby and linked to a prior housebreaking at the same premises. Following confirmation from the resident, a case was opened and the suspect was arrested.
On 3 April, an HPP patrol officer identified and detained a suspect in the CBD linked to a recent theft. Stolen items were recovered, and the suspect was handed over to SAPS after the complainant opened a case.
These outcomes reflect the professionalism and consistency of HPP teams on the ground. The combination of high-visibility foot and vehicle patrols, CCTV monitoring, informed response, and community cooperation continues to enable effective intervention and accountability.
Meet the Team | Spotting HPP on Patrol
HPP is a public safety initiative funded by local ratepayers and delivered in partnership with Fidelity ADT. The model is designed to provide visible, responsive, and coordinated public space safety across the HSRA.
HPP personnel are easy to identify in the field. Officers wear clearly branded uniforms, with signature red bibs and hats marked HPP / Fidelity ADT, ensuring visibility and accountability. They operate across multiple patrol modes, including foot patrols, bicycle patrols, and marked response vehicles, allowing flexible coverage of different areas and conditions.
All officers are equipped with two-way radios linked directly to the HPP Control Room, ensuring immediate communication and coordinated response when incidents occur. In addition, GPS tracking is used to support accountability, optimise deployment, and maintain oversight of patrol movements throughout the operational area.
At the centre of operations is the HPP Control Room, which provides 24/7 capability. It is responsible for the centralised monitoring of public space camera systems, coordination of patrol responses, and real-time operational support to field teams.
HPP’s footprint extends across key public spaces, residential edges, and the central business district, ensuring a consistent presence where it is most needed.
The April period reflected stable operational performance, despite increased seasonal pressures. While broader crime trends continue to show encouraging reductions in several categories, sustained vigilance, timely reporting, and strong cooperation between the public and HPP remain essential to maintaining these gains.
Residents are encouraged to report incidents and support lawful enforcement processes to ensure sustained impact.
That is all for this edition. With your support, we will continue to protect what makes Hermanus such a special place to live and visit.
Leon Rauch
HPP Chair
Stay Connected. Stay Safe with HPP.
Stay informed and connected by joining the HPP WhatsApp group. This is where we share our monthly newsletter, practical safety tips, and occasional important public safety updates. It’s a simple way to stay aware of what’s happening in the area and how you can play a part in keeping our community safe.
This is an information-only group. No emergency reporting or general chat.
For emergencies, contact HPP Control Room: 087 550 5295.