How do we end this?

Residents in Witpoortjie are living in fear.

Crime in the area has turned extremely violent lately. The cases we’ve reported on include the Black Audi gang; the White Merc gang; the motorcycle theft accompanied by dog poisoning; a botched hijacking where a man was shot dead during this past weekend, and the recent hijacking in which a 15-year-old girl was flung out of a moving vehicle.

It feels as if crime is getting worse the closer we get to the elections and it seems like the sterling work the neighbourhood watches and Police do is fruitless. Are they losing the battle against the escalating crime?

I remember a time, long ago, when Witpoortjie was a tranquil and peaceful neighbourhood, but things are completely out of control. We have heard numerous reports of people wanting to leave the area because of the crime and violence.

The biggest question however is: Why is this area suddenly under siege? One of the most popular theories is that there are many easy escape routes, especially from the southern part of Witpoortjie, heading towards Leratong Hospital.

Crime is getting so close to home. Two weeks ago, Record journalist Riaan van Zyl chased after suspects who were attempting to steal a car in the parking lot between the Caxton office and the Witpoortjie Spar. Fortunately for Riaan the suspects fled the scene without harming anyone, but things could very easily have turned for the worse.

I think everybody feels powerless and frustrated. What can be done to end this?

We would like to hear from you.

Until next week, take care of one another.

Ciao