Minister of Police Bheki Cele recently visited the Bridge City Mall in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, which was severely looted during the unrest that took place in July 2021. The mall, serving not only KwaMashu but also neighboring communities such as Inanda and Ntuzuma, was left empty and destroyed during the looting.
Being one of the hardest-hit establishments during the 2021 looting, the Bridge City Mall left thousands of people struggling as they had no other nearby alternative for purchasing goods.
The situation was further exacerbated by the fact that neighboring areas, like Phoenix, were also affected by racial tensions, resulting in 36 deaths.
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During his visit on Sunday, Minister Cele emphasized the importance of preventing history from repeating itself. He urged the communities in KwaMashu and surrounding areas to take a proactive role in protecting their safety and the local infrastructure.
Cele made a firm commitment to ensuring that those responsible for instigating the unrest in July would face severe consequences once they stand trial. The residents of KwaMashu must understand that their active participation in safeguarding their community can help prevent such incidents from happening again.
One of the key aspects emphasized by Minister Cele was the need for community members to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. By doing so, residents can assist the police in identifying potential threats and preventing criminal acts before they occur.
Additionally, Minister Cele stressed the importance of community engagement and collaboration.
He encouraged residents to form community watch groups and establish strong relationships with local law enforcement agencies. These partnerships can enhance communication channels and enable a swift response to any security concerns.
Furthermore, Minister Cele highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in securing the safety of the community. He called upon local businesses to invest in security measures and collaborate with the police to develop strategies for protecting their establishments.
The minister also emphasized the need for ongoing dialogue between community members and the police. This open line of communication allows for the exchange of information, concerns, and ideas, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation.
Ultimately, Minister Cele’s visit to the Bridge City Mall served as a reminder to KwaMashu residents that they have the power to shape the safety and security of their community.
By taking an active role in protecting their infrastructure and reporting suspicious activities, residents can contribute to the prevention of future incidents.
