Joggers beware of crime hotspot

Students and staff making use of the track which runs from Rhodes Drive towards upper campus, parallel to the M3 highway, are asked to remain alert following recent muggings in the area.

Although Campus Protection Services (CPS) have not received any reports, information posted on community crime-awareness website eBlockwatch gives details of a jogger who was attacked with a stick on a portion of the track that passes through the Newlands Forest. Being heavily wooded, this section of paving cannot be viewed from the M3.

As a popular course for runners, especially in the evenings, those making use of the track are advised to exercise caution and not to run alone.

After conducting various spot checks on campus over the past few weeks, CPS have reported an increase in the number of unauthorised visitors making use of laboratories during the exam period.

"UCT students are allowing their friends access to the campus by giving them their access cards," says Securicor's regional manager, Stuart Wragg. "Unauthorised visitors are also standing outside labs and tailgating when a student swipes their access card. This should not be happening as each person is required to swipe their security card when entering an access-controlled area."

Wragg pointed out that trespassers have been issued with warnings but from now on unauthorised visitors would be arrested.

The university community is reminded that CPS staff are available after hours to accompany them from places of learning to their vehicles or residences.

CPS operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week from six service centres. They can be contacted on their 24-hour hotline - 650 2222/3.