As the Bonteheuwel community become victim to an increase in robberies and vandalism to not only their local schools but also their homes, the police and the Bonteheuwel Joint Peace Forum plan to meet on Saturday to devise a strategic plan in eradicating their area of gang related crimes. However, since the controversial Operation Fiela brought the army to the area, residents question what will become of the situation now once the army officials have left and taken the concept of safety and security along with them.

The Forum’s Judy Kennedy believes that through creating a level of communication and relationship with relevant authorities, they can move forward towards sustainable measures in combating gang related crimes.

“The Joint Peace Forum was established year to address the escalation of crime in the area. However, crime is not the only challenges people face on the community but it is the one that results in the most loss of innocent lives. This meeting is part of an ongoing engagement with SAPS, Metro Police and Correctional Services to talk about an integrated plan around crime and safety in the area. This meeting will allow the community an opportunity to engage with these role players,” Kennedy explained.

The forum and residents in the area have intensified their campaigns against gangsterism, unemployment and many other socio-economic challenges affecting them.

According to Kennedy, the problem of gang violence is one that requires immediate intervention. Through meeting with heads of the relevant policing departments, Kennedy says residents will be able to personally interact, question and provide their input in creating a solution.

However, the concerns of the forum do not focus on the issues within Bonteheuwel alone. Kennedy explained that the increase in crime on Jakes Gerwel Road has also left many residents of neighbouring Langa exposed to serious violence. The forum will be requesting police assistance in not only Bonteheuwel but other gang infested areas on the Cape Flats as well.

“How long must Manenberg, Lavender Hill or Ottery be the way it is? This is just our contribution in terms of pressurising the authorities in coming together and establishing a strategic plan. For us it is about what happens after Operation Fiela,” Kennedy added.

Kennedy says the forum will remain mindful of the upcoming 2016 elections and remain wary of possible political promises to be made.

The meeting will be taking place at Freedom Square (Bontheuwel Terminus) at 3pm on Saturday. All members of the public have been invited to attend. VOC (Ra’eesah Isaacs)