Sea Point CID celebrates achievers

The Sea Point City Improvement District (CID) celebrated the achievements of its employees and law enforcement partners with an awards ceremony at a city hotel on Wednesday last week.

“We work closely with SAPS and Law Enforcement; it’s a good partnership, and SAPS cannot do it alone. We cannot do it alone. We have these awards every year, and it’s to recognise those that work well and to motivate their colleagues,” said Heather Tager, the CID’s chief operations officer.

“Our area is almost crime-free. We have 40 members as well as Law Enforcement officers that only work in our area, and we work 24/7 from Glengariff Road to the Queens Circle,” Ms Tager said. “But if something happens outside our area, we are available to assist, which we have done. If SAPS need a lock-up vehicle, they know they can call on us as we have that and a tactical vehicle.”

The CID's chairman, Jacques Weber, said its officers would soon be equipped with body cameras to aid crime prevention.

“About four years ago, we started with CCTV cameras, and that has prevented so many crimes. If SAPS come to us we can often find the suspects using our footage. We want to go one step further because with technology advancing for law enforcement, we can now do this for our CID guys,” Mr Weber said.

“Firstly, it strengthens our evidence in court when an arrest is made. Secondly, it allows us to maintain accountability. If complaints are lodged against our officers, we can review the footage to determine if the complaint is valid.”

Expressing her support for the CID, ward councillor Nicola Jowell said the awards were a "huge motivator".

She added: "It's good to acknowledge the officers, and it goes a long way in motivating people to continue their good work.

“I’m happy that we have three CIDs in this ward as they do a tremendous job of keeping places safe, and we cannot do without the CIDs. They also do a phenomenal job when it comes to cleaning up the beaches and streets."