Greetings,

In this Newsletter:

• The launch of the Hermanus Business Chamber’s Industrial Business Area Cluster.
• An update on safety in the Hermanus Special Rating Area (HSRA).
• HPP engages with Voëlklip property owners.
• The planned process to appoint new service providers, if the Overstrand Municipality (OM) grants the HSRA an extension of term.

A word of thanks

During the past month, HPP Patrol Officer Nkita was approached by a member of the public who reported that her car tyre had been vandalised while parked in a CBD parking area. An HPP Control Room Operator reviewed CCTV footage, identified a male suspect damaging the tyre, and provided a description to the Patrol Officer and SAPS. The suspect was subsequently located and apprehended. SAPS arrested the individual and charged him with malicious damage to property. We commend Officer Nkita, the Control Room Operator, and SAPS for their effective teamwork.

The launch of the Hermanus Business Chamber’s Industrial Business Area Cluster

We were delighted to be included in the launch of the Industrial Business Area Cluster and made good use of the opportunity to engage with property and business owners. The Business Chamber’s aim is to focus on the needs of the businesses in the Industrial Area and to revitalise this part of town.

It was pleasing to hear from Colonel Gustav Tamboer, the local SAPS Station Commander, that in the past financial year, there was a reduction in crime in all areas under his command. He ascribed the recent successes to the integrated approach followed in Hermanus by SAPS, Overstrand Law Enforcement, HPP, the private security companies, neighbourhood watches and other related bodies.

Marcia Bown, the HPP Executive Officer confirmed that the combined efficiency of HPP’s vehicles and foot patrols, as well CCTV cameras, contribute to ensuring enhanced safety in the Industrial area. She urged all businesses to report any crime issues and suspicious behaviour to the HPP Control Room at 087 550 5295.

I am keen to have either a property or business owner from the Industrial Area on the HPP Board. Interested persons must please contact me (chairperson@hpp.org.za).

Update on safety in the HSRA 

Following a relatively quiet couple of months, there has unfortunately been a recent increase in criminal activity in the Voëlklip and Kwaaiwater suburbs.

We are particularly concerned about two robberies on Grotto Beach, as well as several reported house break-ins and attempted break-ins in these areas. Additionally, incidents of unruly behaviour have been noted at the Grotto braai areas.

HPP remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to address these concerns proactively. We urge residents to stay vigilant, avoid isolated areas with low foot traffic, and be aware that HPP patrols along the Cliff Path conclude at 6 PM. However, our control room and vehicle patrols are available 24/7 for assistance. Please ensure your home security measures are in place, including activating alarms, beams, and lights, and securing doors and windows. Report any suspicious activity to the HPP Control Room immediately.

HPP engages with Voëlklip property owners

At the invitation of the Voëlklip Neighbourhood Watch, we engaged with local property owners to address safety concerns. In light of recent incidents in Voëlklip, many community members attended to voice their concerns, particularly regarding the Grotto Beach robberies and disruptive behaviour in the beach areas.

The discussion was constructive, with several proposals made to improve security in the Grotto Beach area. It was agreed that HPP would assist the community by installing cameras at identified hotspots, and attendees generously offered to help fundraise to expand HPP’s surveillance capacity. A feasibility assessment of the proposed camera sites will be conducted in the coming days.

We sincerely thank Voëlklip Neighbourhood Watch for organising the meeting, Lateral Solutions for hosting the community and offering to contribute to the camera project, as well as all community members who participated in the briefing.

Extracts from HPP’s Daily Operational Reports Since the Beginning of 2025

Routine incidents: HPP monitored and escorted individuals causing a public nuisance out of the area. Public drinking violations were addressed, and environmental authorities were alerted to illegal activities. OM was notified of a deceased seal on the shoreline. Assistance was provided in various situations, including calling an ambulance for an injured person in Zwelihle, aiding SAPS in tracking stolen vehicles via CCTV, reuniting a lost dog with its owner, and helping a resident recover a lost bank card. CCTV also detected a fire in Zwelihle, prompting notification to the fire department.

Notable Incidents: HPP assisted in the apprehension of a suspect involved in a theft at Gateway Centre and another individual found with stolen cables in the Industrial Area. A known offender was detained and handed to SAPS after being found in possession of Mandrax. Individuals using illegal substances were also apprehended and handed over to SAPS. Additionally, a driver under the influence was detained, and CCTV Operators located a missing child, who was safely returned home by OM Law Enforcement.

The planned process to appoint new service providers

I have previously reported that the HSRA’s term of operation ends on 30 June 2025 and that the outcome of our application to the OM Council for an extension of the term is expected by March.

Hoping that the OM Council grants the request, the process to appoint service providers for the HSRA’s new term has been determined. Below is a flow diagram of the critical dates.