TOUR operators in the North West have expressed concerns following recent hijackings of international tourists.
In a briefing meeting held at Sun City on Wednesday, 13 December, the Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism together with Sun City Resort presented their plans to enhance security.
Bernard Marobe, owner of Kgabo Safaris, a company that offers game drives and transfers in the Pilanesberg National Park, said they were extremely worried about the criminal activities targeting tourists.
He said they have received so many cancellations after the two hijacking incidents.
"News travel very fast within this industry. Word of mouth is critical and already our tourists are devastated. Some people decided to change their holiday destinations to other provinces. This is badly affecting business," he said.
Marobe said this is where their bread is buttered and it’s sad that they might lose business.
He urged that they work together with the government and all relevant stakeholders to create awareness in the community.
"Our communities must know that we all benefit from Tourism. Our companies hire local people direct from these communities,” he said.
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Sarah Manone, chief director for Tourism at the Department of Economic Development Environment Conservation and Tourism, assured the public that they have established a working relationship with the police and have enhanced the visibility of police officers on the roads.
She said they will involve Community Safety Forum by next week in efforts to strengthen security on the roads.
“We need to develop a long-term plan which will also involve Gauteng province because the movement of our tourists is between the two provinces,” she said.
Manone said they will also use technology to create and improve communication between all partners.
Sun City general manager Brett Hoppe said they have established a platform for sharing information with all stakeholders.
“We have an email and contact number where stakeholders can communicate any information directly to us. They can contact 064 859 6794 or email to [email protected].
North West police spokeswoman Colonel Adele Myburgh confirmed the incident that occurred on Saturday, 2 December 2023 where 11 tourists were in a tour bus (Quantum) on the R556, in the Mooinooi area, when their bus was allegedly stopped, and the tourists robbed of their personal property and cash by four armed suspects.
“No injuries were reported. Our detectives in the district are working around the clock to identify the suspects,” said Myburgh.
She said an attempted hijacking was also reported on Friday, 24 November 2023 at 1pm close to Marikana.
