Joburg parks and zoo shifts security strategy from private firms

By Johnathan Paoli

Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo said on Thursday it will revise security deployments at selected public spaces, reducing its reliance on private security firms and strengthening internal capacity through public-sector partnerships.

In a statement, JCPZ spokesperson Jenny Moodley said the changes followed a strategic review of the entity’s security deployment model and related financial plan.

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She said the revised approach would also affect cemeteries and facilities across Johannesburg.

Under the new model, JCPZ will increase the use of insourced security personnel, supported by closer coordination with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and the South African Police Service.

“These entities will collectively assume greater responsibility for randomised patrols across public facilities, with the objective of enhancing visible policing, discouraging criminal activity, and promoting compliance with applicable by-laws,” Moodley said.

“JCPZ’s Park Rangers have developed