A group of concerned parents in Tafelsig took a stand against gangsterism by reclaiming their local park from illegal graffiti and dumping.
The community living near Tierkloof Street Park has been gathering for several weeks to tackle gang graffiti, illegal dumping and beautify the area in the hope of creating a safe space for children to play sports.
Remarking
On Monday, Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith joined residents and the city’s Graffiti Unit to remove gang insignia that had been painted on walls facing the park.
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“I would like to applaud the residents for taking the step to show the gangs that they will not allow them to mark territories and deface the community,” Smith said. “Removing illegal graffiti helps to prevent urban decay, reduces crime, and protects property values. I would like to urge residents to call our call centre on 021 480 7700 or 107 from a landline and report these gang tags. Our small but effective Graffiti Unit will respond. Just like the parents in Tafelsig we should all stand up and show these gangsters they will not leave their marks on our communities.”
Safe space
Spokesperson for the residents’ group, Bradley Elu, said the community reached out to Smith after seeing him remove graffiti in Manenberg.
“As parents we have worked hard to create a safe space for children in our community. We have cleaned the field daily and also hosted sports events,” Elu said. “We are grateful for the work of the Graffiti Unit to help instil a sense of pride in our community. As residents we will work together to take our community back.”
The specialised unit within the Law Enforcement Department removes illegal graffiti daily throughout the metropole. During the last three months of 2025, the unit removed nearly 10 000 square metres of graffiti, with more than a million square metres removed since its establishment.
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