Concerned residents from Ward 34 in Browns Farm rolled their sleeves up on Saturday 12 August to clean community facilities damaged through vandalism during the taxi strike last week.
It is alleged vandals went on a rampage on Monday 7 August and damaged a community hall used by local councillor Melikhaya Gadeni. The hall has numerous offices and a swimming pool.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Singathwa Magxotwa said he and others felt they could not fold their arms and do nothing while their facilities were damaged by hooligans.
He stressed the vandals had broken in into the councillor’s office, and other City facilities were affected by last week’s criminality.
“We are here to assist our councillor. When we heard what had happened at our councillor’s office we were shocked and disturbed because the councillor is working for the community.
“Since the councillor resumed office in November 2021 he exposed us to many things. He is the best councillor ever in this ward. He is transparent and working so hard for the community.”
Magxotwa related how, in response to the distressing prospect of Gadeni’s office closing, residents volunteered to clean it and surrounding facilities. He described their involvement as a sign of appreciation for all the work he has done for the community.
“The perpetrators jumped over the back wall of the swimming baths and moved to the community hall from there they went to the councillor’s office and other offices.”
Magxotwa vowed that the community would ensure all government facilities in their ward were protected from the criminals.
In his interview with City Vision Gadeni said all the facilities in the hall were closed until further notice. He stated people who wanted municipal services could go to Fezeka Municipal offices in Gugulethu. While those who needed help with addresses and stamps could go to the Nyanga Police Station.
“As the community of Ward 34 we came to clean our vandalised and looted facilities so that they can at least look better in the public,” said Gadeni.
“We understand the extent of the damage is extensive but it was important we cleaned the facilities.”
He said stolen items included computers, hard drives, telephones, desks, cupboards, projector screens, neighbourhood-watch equipment, sports equipment, recreation and parks equipment, office stamps and printers.
Gadeni said two people were arrested in connection to the incident.
Speaking on behalf of Nyanga police, Sgt Mongi Ngedle confirmed the incident and cited two suspects, aged 19 and 34 years old, who were arrested for possession of stolen property.
He said they appeared in the Philippi Magistrates’ Court on Monday 14 August, but their case was withdrawn.