The ward 66 councillor, Clr Carlos Da Rocha, thanked Stallion Security for its donation of two officers per day to Rhodes Park.
Clr Da Rocha said the security officers will be in the park from when it opens at 6am until it closes at 6pm every day. The guards will patrol the park with a golf cart.
He said discussions to improve security in the park commenced before the double murder and rape of October 17.
“I ran a petition calling for extra security in the park. This was because of complaints about crime in the park. Many people have been mugged here. We spoke to the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) and several private security companies. Stallion has responded to our call,” said Clr Da Rocha.
“There will be emergency reaction numbers that go directly to the guards published on sign boards throughout the park,” he said.
“People will be able to report any suspicious people and incidents as they see them. The officers will then attend to it or report to patrolling cars. A back up will then be called if necessary,” he said.
The JPCZ’s general manager stakeholders and public relations management, Ms Jenny Moodley, said this will help with intensifying the security in the park.
“The two security officers on the golf carts will compliment our policing plan. The officers were given as the company’s extended offering to the residents of Kensington and adjacent areas, and the JCPZ is thankful to the company for its generosity,” she said.
She called on the community to not desert Rhodes Park.
“Visitors to Rhodes Park have enjoyed some of the most tranquil and scenic views in the city and we appeal to residents to come out in their numbers and to continue enjoying the recreational facilities in one of the city’s most popular flagship facilities,” said Ms Moodley.
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