Reports of incidences of crime in the Cape’s nature parks have been increasing since lockdown Level 3 allowed for hikers and nature-lovers to access them. According to the Take Back Our Mountains (TBOM) Facebook page, a woman was robbed while hiking this morning [June 18].
“A lady was mugged this morning on Signal Hill by two young males,” the group said. “Please be safe on the trails.”
The incident was reported to have taken place around the general vicinity of the Pat’s Track area, and no description of the suspects has yet been released.
Last week on June 9, a woman was robbed of her camera and allegedly assaulted between the parking lot and waterfall at Silvermine’s Gate 2. On Saturday, June 13 a couple were also mugged. These two incidents occurred in areas closed to the public.
TBOM founder Taahir Osman explained on the TBOM Facebook page that the areas closed to the public are unmanned by SANParks rangers as their presence is required in areas open to the public.
The page also advised hikers to remain alert as crime is spiking in nature parks and reserves across the province.
Many hikers expressed concern at the news of the incident.
“Where are you SAFE??” one commented.
“I hope the poor lady wasn’t hurt. Must be enough physical stress physical adding to it,” another said.
TBOM has a WhatsApp group for hiking, trail running and mountain biking clubs to join in and to be the eyes and ears of SANParks. To join, contact the Take Back Our Mountains Group on Facebook or send your contact details to Taahir Osman on 073 624 4287 or email: [email protected].
Cape Town ETC reached out to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for comment, but had received none by the time of publication.
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Picture: AllTrails