Franschhoek improves safety with collaborative approach

In response to recent burglaries on guest farms and growing safety concerns, the Franschhoek Wine Valley (FWV), the local tourism organisation in the area, decided enough is enough and assisted in sharpening the town’s security by launching an initiative to strengthen security and improve coordination among local safety partners.

So far FWV has “convened strategic sessions with key stakeholders, including private security providers, the fire and safety department, first responders, and senior representatives from the police to assess potential risks and develop a valley-wide safety strategy,” according to Ruth McCourt, chief executive officer of the FWV.

These discussions have resulted in the establishment of a revised Franschhoek security cluster committee, which is now driving a more structured and collaborative approach to community safety.

The committee serves as a platform for cooperation between farms, hospitality providers, and local safety organisations. Weekly meetings are being held to share updates, identify emerging threats, and coordinate response efforts across the valley.

The hospitality sector is working alongside FWV to introduce a basic grading framework that will help accommodation providers assess and strengthen their security readiness. Property owners and businesses are also being encouraged to review and upgrade their infrastructure, with FWV offering guidelines and connections to vetted service providers, McCourt said.

In addition to improving on-the-ground security, FWV is also developing a consistent public awareness campaign to keep residents and visitors informed. A “Do’s and Dont’s” safety flyer is being prepared for distribution across Franschhoek, aiming to ensure that everyone in the community understands basic safety measures and how to respond in the event of an emergency.

McCourt said that, although recent incidents have understandably heightened concern, Franschhoek’s overall crime rate remains significantly lower than that of surrounding towns. She added that local policing capacity remains a major challenge to combat crime and that the Franschhoek Police Station currently operates with only one response vehicle to cover the entire valley, “placing pressure on officers to respond swiftly to multiple incidents”.

To address these challenges, FWV is collaborating closely with the Franschhoek Police and the wider security network to “improve coordination, reduce response times, and assist in identifying and apprehending suspects”

“This security initiative represents a united and proactive effort by residents, businesses, and law enforcement to maintain Franschhoek’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. FWV has committed to providing regular updates as these measures continue to take shape”.

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Paarl Post previously reported on at least two suspects being sought in connection with a burglary at a cottage on the Dieu Donné wine and guest farm in Uitkyk Street, Franschhoek.

According to information obtained by the newspaper, the guest noticed the suspects outside and locked themselves in the bathroom, after which the suspects allegedly stole a purse and fled the scene.

Three suspects are also being sought by the Franschhoek Police in connection with burglaries at Courcheval (also in Uitkyk Street) on 12 October, Chamonix wine and guest farm on 2 August, the Terra de Luc guest farm on 8 June, and the Val d’Or estate on 31 May.