AFTER the highly publicised attempted hijacking of Sandy-Lee Ward on The Bluff recently, frustrated residents joined Ward 66 councillor Zoë Solomon to march along Tara Road to shine the spotlight on escalating crime.
The march, which was held on October 14, gained massive support and highlighted how crime affects victims, even years later.
Solomon said, “When we had the attempted hijacking at Pick ‘n Pay boom gates, people were shocked that you could get hijacked at such a busy place. That is what spurred me to make the public aware that these heinous and violent crimes are happening everywhere.
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“There are many people who have been victims of violent crime. As we near the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, I want to highlight and educate them on how to deal with it.
“What do you do when something like this happens to you? How do you help or defend yourself? What is the right way to react? I am pleased that Brighton Beach police have come on board to create awareness and education around crime. We will bring together security companies, as well as people to teach self-defence.
My aim is for people to know what to do and how to help themselves. Therapists will tell you its fight or flight, but it’s very difficult to live with post-traumatic stress. I have been living with it since I was attacked in 2011.
“I encourage every person in our community and organisations and role-players to attend the programme which we will host. Together we are stronger.”
Le Roux said the increase in crime levels is not a phenomenon exclusive to the Brighton Beach policing area.
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“Crime levels are increasing throughout the country, but it remains a concern. The blame for increased crime levels cannot be solely placed before the feet of the police. Many factors, such as migration and high levels of unemployment, are generators.
“During patrols, it is noted with concern the lack of utilising security features effectively. Front doors, gates and garages are left open. Insufficient lighting or no lighting at night is observed.
“Vehicles are parked in public spaces, on verges, inside yards and in unlocked garages, with valuables in plain sight. Individuals are driving their vehicles while texting and talking on their phones with windows wound down and doors unlocked.
“When occupying public spaces, people are texting and talking on their phones while walking. The lack of community participation is also observed by low attendance at public meetings held by the community policing forum.
Also read: Ward 64 residents call on police to act against crime
“To create a safer environment for all, it is imperative that the community we protect and serve works together in partnership with police and our stakeholders,” added Le Roux.
Brighton Beach Police will host a festive-season integrated family education and awareness workshop on November 4. The objective of the workshop will be to create a heightened level of alertness during the festive season. Details of the workshop will be communicated through the various media platforms.
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