Communities join hands in the fight against drugs in Westbury
"We can't be held hostage by a minority".
Just over a week ago, gunshots from high-powered rifles rocked the quiet evening.
Morning would reveal three casualties in the ongoing drug war in Westbury, setting social media abuzz as residents lamented how many more lives would be lost as the year progresses.
Residents and community leaders who have clearly had enough of the continuing gun violence in the area, took the streets on March 16 to give vent to their frustrations.
Communities such as Bosmont, Eldorado Park, Riverlea, and Ennerdale came out in support of the march to show their solidarity for embattled Westbury residents.
Cheryl Pillay, Eldorado Park Local Drug Action Committee chairperson said, “An injury to one is an injury to us all.
“Whatever happens in Westbury spills over into other areas.” Pillay added that “When all communities stand together, we send a clear message that we cannot be held hostage by a minority.”
Westbury and Eldorado Park share deep ties and both communities are plagued by drug abuse and what many residents believe to be gang related deaths as rivals fight each other in a bid to control turf.
Denzil Blignaut, Eldorado Park CPF member, added, “At stake is the legacy we are leaving our children.
“We run the risk of a community where even the children will be hooked on mind altering substance if we do not take decisive action NOW.”
Cheryl Pillay can be heard delivering an address to the crowds in the audio clips below:
https://twitter.com/SowetoUrban/status/854580686593957889
Stay Informed: For the latest news follow us on
