Dark streets fuel criminal activity, say fearful residents

The community of ward 7 live in fear as a high mast light was taken down during the first process of the destruction of homes in D-section.

People are now being targeted through house break-ins and muggings.

Community leader Phiko Ntlazana said: “Crime forums have stopped patrolling the community, as there is not enough lighting due to the high mast light being taken down.”

Crime is rife in the area as there is easy access to weapons such as guns.

“We destroyed a vacant shack two weeks ago as it was used as a place for criminal activities, and the youth used it to consume illegal substances.”

Ntlazana said they had followed up on the light issue with the Buffalo City Metro (BCM), but their cries had fallen on deaf ears and nothing had been done.

Resident Xoliswa Mzini said house break-ins were the main issue in the area and residents being targeted were often those who worked night shifts.

“If we could get the high mast light reinstalled, I believe it would be different in our community as the light reflects in the small streets that are within the informal settlements.”

She recalled an incident in which she was the victim of a mugging while coming back from work.

“These incidents happen so fast and unexpectedly. You think you are vigilant but there are people planning on ruining your life.”

She said the crime forum was more visible in places that had light. Duncan Village crime forum founder Ludumo Salman confirmed that the situation was challenging and it was risky for members to patrol in places that did not have sufficient lighting in the evenings.

“We try to help where we can but it is difficult and people fear for their lives.

“These thugs run in between the informal settlement, which gives them more advantage against us to catch them.”

Buffalo City Metro had not responded to questions by the time of going to print.