LIKE the proverbial phoenix rising from the ashes, Amanzimtoti’s Storage City has literally done that.
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The facility was left gutted in July after being looted during the riots when people descended on its units, plundering anything they could carry and burning what they could not. Lorin Ash, one of Storage City directors, said nothing could have prepared her for the carnage she witnessed after arriving at the site.
“Tenants were picking through the wreckage looking for any semblance of memories, photographs, trinkets, family heirlooms and more that were gone in an apparent blink of an eye. Among the chaos, people were still stealing, taking roof sheeting, roll-up doors, even chipping out bricks,” said Ash.
The facility secured an additional security company, who cleared out the remainder of the looters. As they retreated from Storage City, the mobs started to make their way towards Galleria Mall and Arbour Crossing, but were stopped dead in their tracks near Southgate Business Park by personnel from local security companies and residents, who made a gallant stand in the middle of the road. Ash said with no income from the site, it has not been an easy task to start over.
“Insurance claims are arduous at the best of times, never mind now. We have managed to remove some of the debris and begin rebuilding, we still have a journey ahead of us, but are very positive in the rebuilding of our beautiful country.”
The company has managed rebuild a few units and let them out, and new tenants are being assisted when they come to the site.
“We are striving to return to normal operations as soon as possible. The community has been very supportive and has shown faith in our facility and all we have done to safeguard the premises. The Community Crime Prevention Organisation was also helpful in advising on safety in the days following the unrest,” said Ash.
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