The Harding community is pleading for help from law officials, after several people were murdered in just a few days.
Gunshots echo through the streets day and night. Those killed include taxi operators, drivers, innocent bystanders and a police officer who was gunned down in broad daylight by ‘hitmen’ claim residents.
Incidents
The latest murder occurred in Mazakhele, Harding on Tuesday this week where a 40-year-old man was gunned down at his home at about 14:00. According to information from residents, the suspects or hitmen were carrying rifles and pistols. The victim’s body was riddled with bullets wounds.
On Monday this week, a 37-year-old taxi driver was shot at the taxi rank in Harding. He died at the scene.
A 29-year-old man was shot and killed at a mall in full view of others last Sunday. He was shot multiple times and died at the scene.
A 45-year-old taxi owner was gunned down in Livingstone Street in full view of others last Friday at about 13:00. He also died at the scene. In most of these incidents a number of cartridges were found at the scenes which show that the suspects ensured that their targets were dead.
Also, three people were stabbed to death in Harding last weekend.
Police spokesperson, Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said the above incidents are still under investigation. “Police are gathering information regarding the suspects involved in the killings. Police constantly conduct crime prevention duties and those found breaking the law are arrested. The community is encouraged to work together with the police and to report those involved in criminal activities by calling the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.”
The South African National Taxi Council could not be reached for comment.
Umuziwabantu Municipality was also asked for comment but none was received before going to print.
Concerned Community
The Herald spoke to a number of residents who asked to remain anonymous as they fear for their lives.
“Harding has been branded the Wild West, going to town is like an adventure, you just never know when shots will be fired and if and when, one day, an innocent person will be hurt or killed in the crossfire. The police are probably greatly understaffed and lack the manpower to have a visible presence, to do regular patrolling in and around town,” said one resident.
A businessman said, “The hitmen are not afraid to kill. They conduct these murders in full view of the public. Some don’t hide their faces and walk around using automatic rifles to take out their next target. Is this the life for Harding residents? Are police too afraid to do anything or are they the ones behind these murders?” asked a concerned resident.
“We need police management to intervene now. How do police feel knowing that people are being murdered in Harding every day and expect us to carry on with our daily lives as if nothing happened. Why aren’t those responsible for these murders arrested? ” asked another.
“Every weekend is absolute mayhem in Harding. The town’s people are now living in fear not knowing who is going to be next. The police are nowhere to be found. How does a parent explain to a child why are people shooting each other? Violence has certainly taken over and the ones who are there to protect us are few,” said another.
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