OnVerWag

30/05/2026

COMMUNITY EFFORTS HELP COMBAT CABLE THEFT IN THE HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY
I 30 May 2026

Cable theft continues to be one of the major challenges affecting electricity restoration efforts across the whole of Overstrand, but especially in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley following recent storm damage.

Overstrand Municipality would like to thank the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Residents and Ratepayers Association (HARSA) and its security partners for their proactive efforts to combat cable theft in the valley.

Through a co-ordinated operation involving local security companies, neighbourhood watches and the South African Police Service, seven suspects were arrested over the weekend in connection with alleged cable theft activities. Approximately 150 kg of stolen copper cable was recovered, and two vehicles linked to the operation were impounded.

The Overstrand Municipality welcomes this positive development and trusts that the legal process will take its course.

While this arrest is a significant step forward, residents are advised that the latest cable theft on Haygrove has caused further delays in power restoration.

Currently, there is one Eskom team working in the valley. The technicians are limited by higher-up structures to a maximum of 60 overtime hours per month, a quota that was already reached within the first week following the recent storm.

Despite this, the team has been working additional hours without pay to assist in restoring power. Please be kind and encouraging toward the Eskom team when they are working on your property, as they are doing their best within the limitations they face.

Overstrand Municipality extends its appreciation to Harsa, community members, volunteers, security personnel and law enforcement agencies who continue to work together to protect critical infrastructure and support the restoration of essential services.

Issued by:
Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dr Dean O’Neill

30/05/2026

[YOUR VOICE MATTERS IN SHAPING SAFER COMMUNITIES]

The South African Police Service (SAPS) invites communities across the Western Cape to participate in the public consultation process on the revised Station Post Requirement Methodology, a tool aimed at improving the allocation of police human resources according to the policing needs of each community.

This consultation provides residents with an opportunity to share their views on how policing resources can be strengthened to better respond to crime, improve service delivery, and build stronger partnerships between SAPS and the communities we serve.

Community members are encouraged to attend the sessions at the following police stations between 10:00 and 13:00:

01 June 2026
• Laingsburg
• Worcester
• Nyanga

02 June 2026
• Leeu-Gamka
• Bredasdorp
• Delft

03 June 2026
• Prince Albert
• Swellendam
• Saldanha

04 June 2026
• Beaufort West
• George
• Khayelitsha

Your participation will assist SAPS in ensuring that policing remains responsive, fair, and aligned with the realities faced by communities across the province.

Together, we can help shape equitable policing and safer communities for all.

Interested community members are encouraged to liaise with their local station commanders for further information.


https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/ms.php

30/05/2026

Reporting harmful online content can help protect children from online abuse and other online risks.

Speak up.
Protect children.
Report harmful content.

29/05/2026

Please be ALERT!

Motorists are being urged to remain alert at petrol filling stations following more reports of theft.

In this incident a few weeks ago, a cellphone was stolen.

The victim said the phone was stolen while it was placed on the lap and “not even visible to the eye”, suggesting the suspects may have been closely monitoring the victim before striking.

Safety tips for motorists at petrol stations:

• Keep phones, wallets and handbags out of sight at all times.

• Avoid placing valuables on your lap, passenger seat or dashboard.

• Lock your doors when attendants are not assisting you.

• Stay aware of people approaching your vehicle unnecessarily.

• Be cautious of distractions, as suspects often work in groups.

• If using your phone for payments or directions, put it away immediately afterwards.

• Report suspicious behaviour to petrol station management and SAPS.

• Where possible, use filling stations with visible security presence and CCTV monitoring.

Motorists are reminded that criminals often target busy petrol stations and shopping areas where drivers may be distracted.

22/05/2026

03/05/2026

LOST KEYS!
Contact Onverwag NHW on 0794199276 if these keys belong to you

22/07/2025

Winter Fun & Community Spirit in Hawston

The Yeboneers in partnership with Hawston library recently, hosted a two week winter holiday programme at Thusong Centre, Hawston - bringing smiles, and warmth to around 150 children of all ages.
The community-driven initiative offers fun learning, and care during the school break - and continues to grow thanks to generous support. The programme always welcomes sponsorships to help cover costs like daily lunches, equipment, and activity materials.

This year Onverwag contributed to the lucky packets which were lovingly handed out to the children as a farewell gift from the volunteers.

Together we can continue making a difference.

19/07/2025

In Celebration of Mandela Day.

On the 18 July, the Hermanus CPF and it's members spent 67 minutes giving the Friendly Victim Empowerment room a much - needed clean.
While tidying up, we uncovered beautifull handmade toys and took time to identify essential items still needed - like female hygiene packs - to better support those in need.

Together, we're working to create a space of care, dignity, and healing.