Solidarity in the face of tragedy
“I have no words for what happened. My heart goes out to these families for their loss and to all the residents who in one way or another, are also victims of this barbaric crime."
Scores of people walked against crime at Rhodes Park on Wednesday last week.
This follows the double murder of two men and the rape of a woman on Saturday, October 17, shortly before 7pm.
The ward 66 councillor, Clr Carlos Da Rocha, said the incident was a tragedy.
“I have no words for what happened. My heart goes out to these families for their loss and to all the residents who in one way or another, are also victims of this barbaric crime. We all know that Rhodes Park has its problems but never in my life did I ever imagine that something like this would happen,” he said.
He said security improvements in the park are long overdue.
“It is sad that something like this has to happen before serious consideration is taken about open spaces, but the question now is how long will it last? My biggest fear is will security in the park stop again once?” asked Clr Da Rocha.
The Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) chairperson, Ms Alison Roberts, urged those who may have information about the crime to contact the police.
“The people who committed this atrocity are known in our communities. We appeal to anyone with information to please contact the SAPS. They need to be found and brought to book. Justice must be done as we have lost two of our community members in an act of violence which is beyond comprehension,” said Ms Roberts.
She urged residents to not use the park after 6pm.
“We are horrified by this heinous, senseless crime. Communities must not withdraw from using our park as this just creates a haven for criminals, but we appeal to everyone to refrain from being in any park after 6pm. While we should have the freedom to do this, sadly there are risks,” she said.
