Nelson Mandela Bay Rolls Out R16.1 Million Safety Fleet to Boost Crime Fighting

Mayor Lobishe emphasised that the investment is part of a targeted intervention to improve frontline service delivery, particularly in response to rising concerns about crime, fires, and disaster incidents.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has taken a significant step toward strengthening public safety with the launch of a new R16.1 million safety and security fleet, aimed at enhancing crime prevention, emergency response, and disaster management capabilities across the metro.

Unveiled by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe alongside Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety and Security Luyanda Lawu, the initiative forms part of a broader capital investment programme exceeding R43 million. The investment is targeted at reinforcing frontline services and improving the municipality's overall responsiveness to safety-related incidents.

The newly introduced fleet comprises 20 vehicles that have already been delivered and deployed across key departments, including Metro Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Traffic and Licensing, Security Services, and Disaster Management. The strategic allocation is designed to improve visibility on the ground, strengthen coordination between units, and significantly reduce response times.

A detailed breakdown of the fleet highlights the scale and diversity of the investment. Metro Police received two vehicles valued at R555,600, while Fire and Emergency Services secured two fire tankers, with two additional units still pending delivery, collectively valued at R7.9 million. Traffic and Licensing operations have been bolstered with a mix of vehicles, including a VW Transporter, a Mercedes Fuso breakdown truck, and two Toyota bakkies, amounting to R4.45 million.

Security Services were allocated vehicles worth R3.13 million, while Disaster Management units received three vehicles valued at R1.75 million, enhancing their capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies and coordinate relief efforts.

Beyond the vehicles, the municipality has also invested heavily in communication infrastructure. Equipment worth R4.7 million has already been delivered, with an additional R4.1 million in communication tools expected to further strengthen coordination across departments — a critical component in effective emergency management.

Looking ahead, the metro is awaiting the delivery of specialised firefighting vehicles valued at R27 million. These include a rescue pump and a hydraulic platform, both of which are expected to significantly elevate the city's ability to handle complex and high-risk emergency situations.

Mayor Lobishe emphasised that the investment is part of a targeted intervention to improve frontline service delivery, particularly in response to rising concerns about crime, fires, and disaster incidents. She linked the initiative to broader national and municipal priorities, including building a capable and ethical state, driving inclusive economic growth, and improving quality of life.

"At its core, this is an investment in people's safety, dignity, and confidence in government," Lobishe stated. "A safer city is not only more liveable but also more attractive for investment. This intervention strengthens our ability to respond effectively, protect communities, and create an environment where residents and businesses can thrive."

MMC Luyanda Lawu echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the new resources will significantly enhance the responsiveness of the Safety and Security Directorate across multiple functions, including law enforcement, fire services, and disaster management.

"Our responsibility is clear — when communities face crime, fires, or disasters, the municipality must be equipped, visible, and able to act decisively," Lawu said. "These resources are essential to ensure that responses are timely and that service delivery is experienced directly by our communities."

Importantly, the municipality confirmed that the procurement process for the fleet was conducted in full compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and value-driven public spending.

This latest investment signals a broader commitment by Nelson Mandela Bay to continuously strengthen its safety infrastructure. By combining upgraded equipment, improved coordination systems, and sustained funding, the metro aims to build a more resilient, responsive, and secure urban environment.

As cities across South Africa grapple with rising safety challenges, Nelson Mandela Bay's approach reflects a growing recognition that effective service delivery — particularly in safety and emergency response — is central to public trust, economic stability, and long-term urban sustainability.