Community leaders have applauded residents who sacrificed their time and put their lives on the line to make sure businesses across Rand West City remained untouched amid the national mayhem and unrest.
Besides the looting of a spaza shop and Shoprite: Usave in Mohlakeng, businesses in town were unharmed.
Enrique Bhana said communities have come together to ensure that not only the local economy was protected; they have safeguarded the livelihoods of others by saving their jobs. For this the local heroes should be applauded.
“When you look at the bigger picture, you’ll realise that this would have had long-term implications as the poor would become more impoverished. People should stop doing this because it may have dire consequences,” Bhana said, condemning the looting seen in various parts of the country. He said it’s nothing but criminal acts that are fuelled by thugs and cruel opportunists.
“We know very well that if we allow this type of behaviour we will suffer even more come tomorrow. One of the biggest lessons we’ve learnt was when a municipal building was destroyed a few years ago.”
Bhana said people are suffering the consequences – especially elderly and disabled citizens, who now must travel to town to get municipal services.
Bhana went on to thank a group called Mannekrag in Toekomsrus who took a stand against looting and destruction of properties. Ordinary community members also stood guard at various businesses.
“I salute my community for standing up for their town,” Bhana added.
Member of Parliament, Jane Mananiso said she was proud to see people in other areas such as Bekkersdal and Westonaria also taking a stand against looting. She applauded people for not waiting for government law enforcement to do everything for them, but realising that they have an important role to play too.
“We’ve also seen that many community members were proactive in notifying the police in places were looting incidents were suspected, and keeping the authorities in the loop about what was happening on the ground. Those people made sure that there were law and order in Rand West City during these challenge times. Thank you all,” Mananiso said.
