Residents living near Pollsmoor Prison in Tokai have been advised that the facility’s escape and incident alarm will be tested on a weekly basis, following many years of non-activation.
According to Ward 51 councillor Carolynne Franklin, the alarm will be tested every Wednesday at approximately midday.
Urged not to panic
Members of the public in surrounding areas are urged not to panic should they hear the siren, as the activation will form part of routine testing and does not signal an emergency.
Franklin also thanked the local community for their continued understanding and cooperation, emphasising that the tests are aimed at improving preparedness and safety.
In addition, Franklin has requested that Pollsmoor Prison share its 2026 shooting range schedule in advance.
This measure is intended to prevent confusion or alarm among residents who may hear sounds resembling gunfire during scheduled training exercises.
Relocated gate
Meanwhile, in a further development, the Glenbrae Avenue gate off Tokai Road is in the process of being relocated onto prison property.
The move is expected to reduce inconvenience and irritation experienced by residents who regularly use the affected roadway.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert but reassured that the weekly alarm tests are a proactive safety measure.
Further updates will be communicated as they become available.
More about Pollsmoor Prison
Pollsmoor Prison, located in the Cape Town suburb of Tokai, opened in 1964.
ALSO READ: Prison life: The daily routine of an inmate at Pollsmoor
The land on which the prison lies was bought by Hendrick van der Poll in 1834, hence the name.
The land, which was inherited by Van der Poll’s wife Johanna Kirsten’s family after the couple died, still houses their graves today which are situated behind the old Pollsmoor police office.
It is a maximum security penal facility that continues to hold some of South Africa’s most dangerous criminals.
The prison was designed for a maximum capacity of 4 336 offenders attended by a staff of 1 278.
