![\"\"](\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/peoplespost\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/647072351_1354963920_02613-1.jpg\")
A tragedy that shocked the community<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Franziska’s murder shocked the community and sparked concern about safety in the Lower Tokai area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the day of her murder, residents arriving for a walk encountered emergency vehicles. These vehicles gathered near the corner of Dennendal West Avenue and Orpen Road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Members of the Kirstenhof Crime Watch later confirmed the tragedy to residents nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Community action after the incident<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
In the aftermath, local residents began organising more actively around the safety and future use of the forest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parkscape was formed shortly after the incident. It advocates for safe, biodiverse and shaded urban parks in the buffer zones of Table Mountain National Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to the organisation, it continues to push for spaces where families, children and women can move safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Our aim has always been to create urban parks where people feel safe to walk, run, ride bicycles and spend time outdoors,” it said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Renewed commitment to safer public spaces<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Nicky Schmidt, founder of Parkscape, said the 10-year anniversary was an important moment for reflection. It is also a time for recommitment to safer public spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We remember Franziska Bl\u00f6chliger, Sinoxolo Mafevuka and other victims of gender-based violence each year. Marking 10 years since Franziska’s murder was a way for the community to honour her memory. In addition, it was a way to renew our commitment to safe, shaded spaces in Lower Tokai, particularly for women and children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“About 60 to 80 people joined the commemorative walk. Since 2016 we have developed a community safety model that focuses on visible presence through regular patrols. These patrols involve partners including SANParks, Law Enforcement, SAPS reservists and neighbourhood watches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Increased presence remains one of the strongest deterrents to opportunistic crime, and we continue working with authorities to improve safety in the area.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ongoing efforts to keep parks safe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Parkscape said the annual walk forms part of broader efforts to keep attention on safety in public spaces. Moreover, it aims to encourage community involvement in protecting local parks.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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