Residents say ongoing gang violence and daytime shootings have left them living in fear, with some questioning whether the deployment of soldiers has made a difference.
By Mapaballo Borotho
Westbury residents say they are living in fear as gang violence and gun battles continue to grip the Johannesburg community, with shootings increasingly taking place in broad daylight.
Residents, community leaders and government officials gathered this week to confront the crisis and find ways to curb the violence.
This comes despite the deployment of members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to the crime-stricken area.
In August, residents described the deployment of soldiers as ineffective, saying crime has continued to plague the community despite their presence.
Phemelo Motene spoke to Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Community Safety chairperson Dr Bandile Masuku about the scale of the crisis and what can be done to restore safety in Westbury.
Masuku says it has been heartbreaking hearing stories from mothers, fathers and guardians who have lost their children to crime in the area.
“There was a serious matter that was raised about the effectiveness of the deployment of the army, and of course there were some issues that were raised by residents in terms of how the army can be empowered.
One of the issues that was raised was a curfew, citing that maybe people should not be allowed in the streets around certain times, and regular stop-and-searches by the army,” said Masuku.
He says police also raised concerns about a lack of community support for some of their crime-fighting efforts.
Police claim that while they attempt to pursue and apprehend suspected criminals, some community members protect them.
Masuku says one of the positive outcomes of the engagement was a commitment from residents to work more closely with police.
“One of the positive outcomes of the engagement was a commitment from the community that they will work hand in hand with police in many instances,” he said.
However, Masuku says the trust deficit between police and residents remains one of the biggest challenges facing Westbury.
He says some parents are aware that their children are involved in criminal activities but continue to protect them, making it difficult for law enforcement to tackle the problem.
Listen to the podcast for the full conversation.
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