AN appeal has gone out to motorists not to tip so-called “car guards” operating illegally in Kouga’s area of jurisdiction.
Kouga Social Services Portfolio Councillor Danny Benson said the municipality had already been able to reduce the number of illegal car guards in Jeffreys Bay through a programme launched last year by the municipality, South African Police Service (SAPS) and private security firms.
“Bright yellow caps have been given to those car guards legally permitted to work as parking attendants in public areas. We would like to appeal to the public not to tip car guards who do not have these caps, as this will also help to minimise the number of people working illegally,” he said.
Benson explained that it was illegal for anyone to work as a car guard or parking attendant if they were not registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA).
“That is why we launched the programme, so as to train and register prospective car guards with PSIRA.
“At the time of the launch only four car guards complied with the requirements. Those who did not comply, were invited to sign up for the programme,” he said. Benson said the programme had been launched following complaints from residents and visitors about the high number of so-called car guards harassing them for money.