Cape Town turns to surveillance tech to stop a tide of violence

City leaders hope an array of new tech will help deter criminals – but residents warn it’s not a simple fix.– — 123rf.com

CAPE TOWN: Former gang member Sammy Andries spent years dodging security cameras watching over Cape Town. Now, he is an unlikely supporter of the South African city’s plan to check an epidemic of violence by pouring millions into surveillance technology.

The proposals have divided residents in poor gang-ridden neighbourhoods, with many saying their areas also need community engagement, investment and jobs to help people turn away from a life of crime.