Ten shops were robbed in Bramfischerville during December in the wake of five that were vandalised by an unknown gang in August.
Shops owned by foreigners were looted and left damaged.
This led the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and the police to make urgent decisions to deal with the problem.
A meeting was later called by CPF chairperson who had invited leaders of the South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco), JMPD and representives of the shopkeepers.
This was after ward committee member for public safety, Joel Mabaso informed the chairperson since he is also a volunteer under the CPF.
In the meeting it was proposed that shopkeepers should close on time and that they should report to the police anything they’re suspicious of.
Mabaso said though meetings were held after the incidents he has stopped dealing with the issue because he allegedly received threats from some people.
“I was always on time to help these Somalian shopkeepers, but I was once asked how I happen to be on the scene before the police.
He said” This gives me the impression that I may be suspected of being involved in vandalising the shops.
“I just hope that dealers find the justice they deserve in this democratic country,” said Mabaso.
CPF chairperson, Peter Taele said that they need brave people like Mabaso to report incidents of attacks on shopkeepers.
Taele said the case on foreigners being attacked continues.
“We plan to hold a meeting soon to update the community on the progress made with the ongoing investigations.
He said residents who permit foreigners to install stalls in their yards should also give them protection.
“There are so many shops in these communities and they give us a huge problem judging from the reports we often receive linked to robbery,” said Taelo.
