Four New Rapid Response Vehicles Strengthen George’s Safety Capability

In the photo from left to right: Inspector Roland Hardnick (Law Enforcement Officer), Cllr Brendon Adams (MMC for Community Safety and Mobility), Ald Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George) and Richard von Willingh (Manager of Law Enforcement & Security Services)

“Fit for purpose!” That’s how the Acting Director of George Municipality’s newly established Community Safety and Mobility Directorate describes the four recently acquired vehicles designated for rapid response operations.

On Wednesday, 4 June 2025, the Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Jackie von Brandis, officially received the vehicles at a ceremonial handover, accompanied by the Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Community Safety and Mobility, Councillor Brendon Adams, and George Municipal Manager, Mr Godfrey Louw.

To bolster public safety in George, the Directorate is in the process of establishing a Rapid Response Unit—where these specialised vehicles will be deployed.

Mayor von Brandis remarked: “I recently observed crucial training initiatives for our law enforcement officers, and during this visit, I had the privilege of releasing four new fit-for-purpose vehicles. These will be used in our Rapid Response Unit, significantly enhancing our operational capacity.”

She further highlighted: “We are intensifying safety interventions to fulfil our mandate of ensuring community safety. Currently, 20 of our law enforcement officers are undergoing specialised Peace Officer training under the guidance of Senior Traffic Officer Iegshaan Dyson from the City of Cape Town.”

This advanced training will empower officers to support SAPS operations, execute arrests, and respond to the growing safety demands of a rapidly expanding city. In addition, select officers are receiving firearm and tactical training at a local shooting range to further enhance their readiness and ability to assist the South African Police Service when needed.

“These developments clearly demonstrate our Municipality’s unwavering commitment to public safety,” said Mayor von Brandis. “We are equipping our officers with world-class training and resources so they can serve and protect the people of George effectively.”

MMC Adams expressed his appreciation to the municipal leadership and staff for their dedication: “Thank you to our leadership and administration for your tireless efforts—none of this would have been possible without your commitment. Our Community Safety and Mobility Directorate is working diligently to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors in George.”