Alcohol will not be tolerated on KwaDukuza beaches this holiday season.
Stop and search operations will once again prevent the festive cheer from spilling over into unwanted drunken and criminal behaviour.
Local police and lifeguard numbers have been boosted temporarily to prepare for the influx of visitors to the region.
In 2020 the issue of beach by-law enforcement reached boiling point with businesses threatening to boycott rates should swift action not be taken.
Reoccurring problems over the prior five years included multiple stabbings, trash filled beaches and streets, loud music and rowdy revellers endangering both themselves and other visitors.
iLembe police commissioner, Major General Anthony Gopaul, launched the festive season operation last Friday at KwaDukuza Mall, where he expressed gratitude to all involved in safeguarding holidaymakers and locals.
The operation, while formally launched on Friday, was already in action on the ground, arresting undocumented immigrants and conducting road blocks.
Each of iLembe’s 10 police stations have contributed members to assist in the operation, which includes increasing police visibility, particularly in KwaDukuza.
On Friday the focus was on stop and search and checking compliance at foreign nationals’ shops in KwaDukuza.
Cluster spokesperson Captain Alex Thomson confirmed that a strategic plan was in place to keep beachgoers safe.
“While I cannot give specific details, we have the numbers to patrol our beaches and ensure there will be no trouble,” said Thomson.
KwaDukuza municipality had also hired an additional 40 temporary lifeguards.
Lifeguard superintendent, Bongani Xulu highlighted the positive impact of police visibility on beaches during the previous season.
“The high number of police really helped bring order on the beaches and in our parking lots last year. I hope we will see that continuing this year because it really made a difference.
“On our side as lifeguards, we are ready to host our holidaymakers,” said Xulu.
The Ballito Library will be used for the running of a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) from December 16 to January 2 where Saps, the municipal crime prevention unit, community policing forum, Ballito Neighbourhood Watch and local security companies will coordinate operations.
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