BY BECKER SEMELA:
More than 100 runners were reportedly robbed of their cell phones during a Heritage Day fun run in Johannesburg on Thursday 24.
Runners were allegedly targeted by criminals who disguised themselves as fellow participants, according to the City of Johannesburg.
In a statement to NewsSA, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport in the City of Johannesburg, Kenny Kunene, described the attack as “organised” and “unacceptable”. He said the criminals took advantage of residents who had gathered to celebrate Heritage Day through sport and community participation.
“This shameless criminal behaviour is completely unacceptable; criminals who infiltrate community events, deceive residents and prey on innocent participants must face the full might of the law,” Kunene said.
He said the robbery caused financial losses, distress and fear among the affected runners and also raised concerns about the safety of residents attending large public events.
Kunene has called on the police to urgently investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
“I am appealing to members of the public who have information about the suspects to report it to the police; we urge residents not to confront suspected criminals or take the law into their own hands,” said Kunene, emphasising the incident has also raised questions about security at mass-participation events.
“Organisers needed to take greater responsibility for the safety of people attending their events,” said Kunene.
He said organisers should have proper security measures, including access control, participant verification, visible security patrols, rapid-response teams and close coordination with law-enforcement agencies.
“Organisers cannot treat security as an afterthought; when hundreds or thousands of residents attend an event, their safety must be the first priority,” Kunene said.
He said the City has expressed its support for the victims and encouraged them to open criminal cases and those who lost their cell phones have also been advised to report the thefts to their service providers and the relevant authorities.
Kunene said criminals should not be allowed to take over public spaces or disrupt community events. “We will not permit criminals to intimidate residents, take over public spaces or destroy the spirit of community events.
“We are calling for those behind the robbery to be brought to justice and for stronger security measures to be implemented at future events. – @NewsSA_Online
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