The Municipality condemns three incidents on its officials and the public.
The long weekend coupled with the amazing sunshine synonymous with Durban has seen thousands of beachgoers enjoying the Durban coast. Numerous compliments have been received on the sterling effort of our law enforcement personnel and the clean and pristine condition of our coastline.
Although the City applauds all its tourists and residents for an incident free 3 days it is with much regret that the following three incidents had occurred.
The assault of an official from Durban Solid Waste (DSW) that occurred yesterday afternoon, 15 December 2019. The incident took place in the vicinity of Blue Lagoon in which the official who was on duty cleaning the area was physically assaulted and his keys taken away as he tried to get back into his vehicle. Metro Police had given chase however was unable to apprehend the person due to the large crowds that they had to manoeuvre through.
The two other incidents occurred this afternoon, 16 December 2019 in which a female under the influence of alcohol got into a vehicle and knocked a Student Traffic Warden and proceeded to thereafter knock two other vehicles. She was arrested and detained, and a case of drunken, reckless and negligent driving has been opened.
The third incident also occurred this afternoon in which a Metro Police Officer was assaulted by three males whilst he was dealing with them drinking in public. The individuals have been arrested.
Zero Tolerance
The Municipality will not hesitate to arrest any member of the public that is found to be disobeying the rules of designated public spaces and who choose to assault any other persons or Municipal personnel who are trying to do their jobs. Those caught transgressing will be brought to book.
Residents and tourists are urged to co-operate with Municipal staff to ensure an incident free festive period. The following are to be observed whilst enjoying our public spaces. Obey all officials on duty.
DON’TS
• Do not drink and drive or drink and swim or drink in public places.
• Do not swim at night and when there are no lifeguards on duty.
• Do not bring animals to the beach. (unless permitted)
• Do not swim along the piers.
• Bathing hours on Central beaches are between 06h00 to 18h30
• Night bathing is strictly prohibited
The City is committed to maximizing its efforts to ensure everyone has an enjoyable incident free holiday. Additional staff have been deployed to keep high traffic areas especially on the beachfront and surrounds areas safe, clean and litter free.
ENDS
Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For more information contact the Municipal Spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220