The Western Cape has recorded a disturbing 54 attacks on social workers since the beginning of April 2024, according to statistics revealed during a recent sitting of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) obtained the figures through parliamentary questions, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) currently investigating all reported incidents involving vehicle hijackings, attempted hijackings, and various forms of intimidation against social workers while on duty.
Khayelitsha emerged as the most dangerous area for social workers, recording nine separate attacks, followed by Harare and Mfuleni with eight incidents each. Gugulethu recorded five attacks, while Lingelethu and Lingelethu West combined reported four incidents.
The remaining attacks were distributed across Mitchells Plain, Nyanga, and Philippi (three each), Blue Downs and Kleinvlei (two each), with single incidents reported in Bellville, Delft, Gordon’s Bay, Kuyasa, Langa, Makhaza, and Kuilsriver.
DA spokesperson on Social Development, Wendy Kaizer-Philander MPP, condemned the attacks as an assault on the province’s social support system, particularly affecting services to children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and victims of substance abuse and gender-based violence.
“We condemn these acts in the strongest possible terms, and we call on law enforcement agencies to prioritise these investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly,” Kaizer-Philander said.
She praised the courage of social workers who continue serving high-risk communities despite the threats. “Despite these threats, our social workers have shown immense bravery, professionalism, and dedication by continuing to serve high-risk communities. We extend our deepest gratitude to these frontline workers who put their lives at risk daily.”
The Western Cape Department of Social Development is collaborating with SAPS and community safety partners to enhance security measures for field personnel. Kaizer-Philander indicated she would again write to the Office of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, following up on previous correspondence requesting these attacks be classified as crimes against the state.
Kaizer-Philander urged community members to protect social workers and report suspicious behaviour that could endanger their safety, emphasising that no social worker should have to choose between personal safety and professional duty.
