Community mobilizes against escalating gang violence in Newcastle
The meeting was emotionally charged following the recent murder of an alleged gang leader prompting residents to share their experiences of living in fear and to discuss potential solutions.
In response to rising gang violence, Newcastle Municipality hosted a community engagement session on Wednesday (October 9), to urgently address the gangsterism in Osizweni and Madadeni.
“We are faced with a situation that requires our committed response. We cannot live in fear, nor can we allow gangsters to rule our town,” Dube asserted. He emphasized that the issue affects everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, noting that crime deters investment in the community.
”Newcastle has a good reputation of peace and political tolerance… however, this rise in crime will affect us all as it threatens to ruin our good name,” he stated.
The tension in the room was palpable, with many in the hall calling for harsher retaliation towards the gangs and support for crime fighting groups such as the Aabqondisi.
Many expressed frustration with the Osizweni police station, alleging their inaction in combating gang activity. Speaking on behalf of the community, Thamsanqa Fakude of the Abaqondisi, took direct shots at the Osizweni police stating:
“The police are part of the problem. Instead of assisting, they tell us they don’t have vehicles to respond to crimes.”
“How can they help us when they are also involved in illegal activities?,” he asked to murmurs of agreement from the crowd.
Madadeni resident, Mr. Mbonane, echoed this sentiment, lamenting that police often arrest community members who try to intervene against gangsters. “We must all work together so that we can live free from robberies and violence and our children are free to go to the shops on their own without fear,”he remarked.
In response, Major General General Fred Alexander of the Amajuba SAPS emphasized the need to legitimise community groups so these can work in conjunction with law enforcement. “We are willing to improve these structures and ensure they operate within legal frameworks,” he said, highlighting the potential for training volunteers to assist police efforts.
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