Man arrested for robbing tourists on Lion’s Head

A 30-year-old man is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 9 October, following the reported robbery of two tourists and their guide on Lion’s Head.

Cape Town Central SAPS confirmed that a robbery case was opened after the incident at approximately 20:15 on Wednesday, 7 October.

Police have since arrested a 30-year-old male suspect in connection with the robbery.

Police spokesperson Thembakazi Yanga Mpendukana confirmed the arrest and said the suspect would appear in court on Friday.

The incident was also reported by Take Back Our Mountains (TBOM), which said two tourists and their guide were robbed on the mountain at around 20:00.

Safety concerns on popular hiking route

The robbery has renewed concerns about safety on Lion’s Head, one of Cape Town’s most popular hiking destinations, which attracts local residents and international tourists.

Take Back Our Mountains has urged hikers, runners, mountain bikers and guides to exercise extra caution when using the mountain, particularly during the evening and early morning.

The organisation has also raised concerns about the availability of safety personnel in Table Mountain National Park.

According to TBOM, the park is currently operating without its Visitor Safety Rangers and night-shift safety personnel.

The organisation said it had approached SANParks management for an update on the safety plan for Table Mountain but was still waiting for feedback from the regional manager after five months.

Hikers urged to remain vigilant

Lion’s Head is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline. However, the latest incident has brought renewed attention to the safety risks faced by visitors, particularly after dark.

TBOM has encouraged people planning to visit the mountain to take additional precautions.

The suspect is expected to appear in court on Friday, 9 October, as the robbery case proceeds.

Meanwhile, hikers have been warned of delays on some of Cape Town’s most popular hiking routes.