21 Jan Plettenberg Bay Faces Rising Crime Concerns Amid Semigration Boom
Plettenberg Bay, a picturesque semigration hotspot in South Africa’s Western Cape, is facing a new security challenge as criminals adopt increasingly sophisticated methods.
According to Ivor Claasen, Garden Route branch manager for Fidelity ADT, intruders have been using white paint to obscure CCTV cameras, enabling them to bypass surveillance undetected during break-ins. This tactic, highlighted in community policing meetings with SAPS, has sparked concerns among residents and businesses.
Experts are urging property owners to strengthen external security measures. Protective camera casings, motion-activated lighting, and robust perimeter defences are essential in deterring these innovative criminal strategies.
The town’s popularity continues to rise, with its serene coastal lifestyle and well-developed infrastructure attracting semigrants seeking an improved quality of life. Property prices have reflected this trend, climbing 25% in 2024 after a similar increase in 2023. Over the past four years, average property values have surged from R2.4 million to R4.1 million, showcasing the demand for real estate in the area.
While SAPS data shows a general decline in residential break-ins over the past five years, non-residential burglaries have seen a year-on-year increase in 2024. This evolving crime landscape highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration between residents, law enforcement, and private security companies.
With proactive measures and community cooperation, Plettenberg Bay can continue to thrive as a sought-after destination, balancing its semigration appeal with enhanced safety and security.