KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Municipality started an Operations Preparedness Plan on November 1 to ensure readiness of its emergency services for the activities that relate directly to the celebration of Guy Fawkes.

This plan included Law Enforcement officials visiting outlets known for selling fireworks in Greater Knysna.

Only one premises was found to be in possession of a permit allowing them to trade in fireworks. “The owners produced the permit that was issued by the SAPS many years back. This permit is being taken into review as it conflicts with our by-law that prohibits the setting off of fireworks within greater, Knysna,” said Bevan Ellman, Knysna acting municipal manager.

Law enforcement officers and a cleansing truck driven by firefighters collected stock-piled tyres in the Northern areas on November 4.

“Over 500 tyres were removed from these areas. The removal of these tyres had a direct bearing on the fewer incidents of burning tyres on November 5,” Ellman explained.

Municipal fire chief, Clinton Manuel set up and commanded a Joint Operations Control Centre (JOC) that included Knysna municipal departments of Law Enforcement and Fire, South African Police Services (SAPS), Public Order Policing (POPs) and Community Policing Forum (CPF) on Saturday, November 5, to quell any Guy Fawkes related incidents.

Ellman explained the objectives of the JOC: “It was imperative to remove tyres from roads that were placed at the ready for burning. Also, any burning tyres were to be dealt with as quickly as possible under the protection of Law Enforcement, SAPS and POPS and to prevent or limit injuries to members of the Public.

“POPS’ main aim was to provide protection to municipal staff and vehicles, and to ensure crowd stay away from the N2 in order to negate any possible stone throwing at passing motor vehicles. Also to make sure that the N2 remained free of burning tyres and remained open and to provide support where necessary.”

Reports of tyre burning was received first from Hornlee, then Sedgefield. The Hornlee incidents were dealt with quickly and effectively. A POPs crew was dispatched to Sedgefield and calm was soon restored.

Sporadic incidents of stone throwing and further tyre burning was received from Dam-se-Bos, the Uniondale Road, Bongani and Judah Square. These incidents were also dealt with efficiently and effectively.

POPS patrolled the N2 to ensure that no stone throwing and burning of tyres occurred along this arterial roadway.

“Despite the unfortunate stoning of several municipal vehicles, the operation was a success. This was achieved through good co-operation between the various roleplayers and for that I thank all involved,” concluded Ellman.