CAPE TOWN - As organisers of the Ballito Rage cancelled the remainder of the popular event in Durban after 32 guests and four staff tested positive for Covid-19, City officials said they were bracing for post matric exam “celebrations” and enforcement agencies will increase patrols around the beach areas and the Central Business District – Long Street in particular, said Safety and security mayco member JP Smith.
“We ask that matriculants who plan to celebrate should take all the necessary steps to ensure a safe environment. The past year has been a difficult one, compounded by the approaching Covid-19 fourth wave. Let us all play our part and avoid possible high risk areas.
“The end of your school career is cause for celebration, particularly the final exams. However, we have seen our fair share of celebrations go south very quickly in the past, and so I urge young people to party responsibly.
"Our staff will keep a close eye on proceedings and while no one wants to be a party pooper, they’ll be duty-bound to act against any transgressions witnessed.”
Anyone found carting and consuming alcohol in public spaces will be fined R500 and have their beverages confiscated.
“In addition to patrols, staff will conduct vehicle checkpoints and roadblocks.The Disaster Management regulations will be enforced too. In recent weeks, the City’s Law Enforcement Department has seen an increase in the number of persons fined for not wearing masks or disregarding the midnight curfew,” he said
The Ballito Rage opened on Tuesday with Covid-19 protocols in place, including mandatory vaccinations for all staff and guests and pre-arrival Covid-19 tests for all guests.
A testing facility was located near the event site and staff testing began on Monday, and of the first 122 staff tested, zero presented positive. Since then, 32 guests and four staff have reportedly tested positive.
In his address on Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa had warned against the hosting of post matric celebrations, saying: “End-of-year parties and matric year-end raves as well as other celebrations should ideally be postponed, and every person should think twice before attending or organising a gathering. Where gatherings do take place, all the necessary Covid protocols must be closely observed.”
Cape Times