Cape Town: The Public Emergency Communication Centre of the City of Cape Town has recorded decrease in complaints related to the illegal sale of fireworks as well as the illegal discharge of fireworks.
Reportedly, incidents have been recorded in recent years that suggest a downturn in the illegal discharge of fireworks and marauding mobs usually associated with Guy Fawkes festival.
The Safety and Security Directorate will be on high alert again this year to respond to the public complaints and urged to keep the Guy Fawkes mute.
As per the previous data, in 2024, the Fire & Rescue Service did not response to any incidents that were specifically linked to Guy Fawkes. The enforcement responded to anti-social behaviour which showed a decline, but officers were kept very busy in areas like Lavender Hill and surroundings, Lotus River and Atlantis.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security – Alderman JP Smith said that they have seen a marked downturn in the past two years of incidents that were reported to the City of Cape Town on Guy Fawkes Day.
They understand that there might have been more incidents that occurred but not reported, they are encouraged nevertheless by the apparent decline. In the city where they grapple daily with violent crime and gun violence, Guy Fawkes as a concept is nonsensical and trauma inducing for those in neighbourhoods where the tradition still rears its head.
They will deploy resources to areas that have shown to be hotspots in the past and also called on the public to report any signs of criminality on the day to help in keeping the public safe.
In the first 20 days of October 2025, the PECC recorded 45 incidents of the illegal discharge of fireworks with more than half occurring over just four days from the 17th.
Mitchells Plain and Bonteheuwel had the highest number of reports, with sporadic complaints in areas like Heideveld, Macassar Village, Manenberg, Ocean View, Cravenby and Grassy Park.
JP Smith further stated that the discharge of fireworks is only allowed with a permit. Officers will act if they catch anyone in the act of discharging fireworks, but it is best to snuff it out at the source. So, if you see anyone selling fireworks on the roadside or at corner shops, and you’re not sure they have a permit for it, please do report it immediately.