CAPE TOWN - Cape Town is stepping up its crime-fighting efforts with the rollout of SWAT teams and drone surveillance as part of a coordinated, city-wide strategy.
The city has allocated R6.8-billion to its Safety and Security Department for the 2026/2027 financial year, with half of that amount earmarked for policing.
Officials say the new technology and specialised teams will strengthen the city’s crime-fighting capabilities and support the work of the SAPS.
Unit heads say the technology helps them pinpoint areas where criminal activity is taking place, allowing officers to respond more quickly.
The city says it is investing in additional officers, specialised training and systems to improve oversight and accountability.
Drone technology recently helped metro police, working with the SAPS, track down five suspects accused of targeting motorists in smash-and-grab incidents.
Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says the new SWAT team and qualified drone pilots are intended to strengthen the city’s policing capabilities and support the SAPS in tackling crime.
Cape Town’s law enforcement authorities say the new technology and specialised teams will strengthen their crime-fighting efforts.
The key question is whether these investments will translate into measurable improvements in crime trends over the coming year.
- eNCA’s Kevin Brandt reports.