As Cape Town residents battle against the scourge of gansterism and drugs, recent events in Manenberg have once again ignited resident’s pleas to create a safe environment for their children. Following the surge of gang violence and the consequent s injury of a nine-year old child and 34- year old man this weekend, residents of the area hosted a two day public meeting in different parts of Manenberg to voice their concern about conditions within the Cape Flats.

The victims were caught in cross fire in Manenbergs Karen Court, as community members went about their day. The man, who was a visitor to the area, was shot in the arm, while the child was shot in the thigh.

Speaking to VOC, member of the Manenberg Community Safety Forum, Roegshanda Pascoe reporting on the on outcomes of the meeting, explained that residents tables issues regarding the on-going violence and the possibility of a ceasefire.

“Some of the main points were the disapproval many have on the on-going violence, the discussion of ceasefire talks that gangs are having between themselves and the strong presence of senior citizens at the meeting,” Pascoe stated.

She said that the area’s ward councillor and station commander did not appear at the meeting after they were invited.

“I think people take it as the community wanting to fight the gangsters, but we are saying as the Manenberg Community Safety Forum that it is time to unite, it is all about uniting. That is one weakness we need to address.”

“We also have a problem where the NGO’s are not working together, and we are the leaders, so we must work together regardless of our differences,” Pascoe urged.

Pascoe added that in order for the community to move forward, the help of the police and their councillors are also needed.

“A reality for us living here is that our youth are trapped by drugs and no one is helping these children. So we are starting a process where we want to eradicate poverty within our community by doing simple things”.

Pascoe affirmed that more will be done within the community to transform the area for the benefit of all.

Manenberg residents will conduct an awareness march on September 17, 2016, and is inviting Cape Flats residents to join the battle against gangsterism and drugs.

VOC