ZWELETHEMBA – In response to escalating criminal activities allegedly orchestrated by Ricardo de Kock and his associates, residents of Magwaleni informal settlement in Zwelethemba have taken a stand, calling for the departure of the alleged ringleader.
The community claims to have endured a reign of terror, prompting a unified effort to restore safety in the area.
A distressed resident voiced the challenges faced by the community, stating: “We can no longer go out partying or walk here without fear of being mugged.
“You see guys standing in the corner or coming your way and you already accept death.”
Manice Xashimba, a member of the spiritual crime-prevention group, expressed concern over the youth’s involvement in criminal activities.
“I saw 14-year-olds carrying a gun in broad daylight. I then knew we were in trouble and couldn’t watch our Zwelethemba being turned into a gang location.”
Mongezi Khethani, a member of the Zwelethemba Neighbourhood Watch (ZNW), shared his own harrowing experience as a victim of the gang’s violence. “They were three with a gun and sharp objects. Trying to defend myself, I was struck with the back of the gun and suffered head injuries and body bruises.”
Despite filing a case with the South African Police Service, only two of the three were arrested.
In response to the community’s plea for assistance, a meeting was organised at the Thusong Centre, calling for residents to join forces with the local community policing forum (CPF), Zwelethemba Neighbourhood Watch (ZNW) and all four ward councillors. A collective decision was made to march to the area and demolish shacks, including De Kock’s, believed to serve as storage facilities for illicit stolen goods and drugs.
De Kock, in response to the community’s demand, stated: “I really have nothing to say. If they want me to leave, I will leave. I finished my sentence and came to Zwelethemba to start a new life and leave the gangs.” Ward 16 Councillor Moses Mangali said: “There is nothing much to say; if the community has decided to take action my job is to see to it that nothing is being damaged in the process. However, I do hope for greater police visibility.”
Warrant Officer AO Jacobs acknowledged the increasing crime problem in Magwaleni, emphasising the collaborative efforts of the police, ward councillor and community in addressing the issue.
Daily visible patrols are being conducted in Zwelethemba, including Magwaleni, to enhance security. However, Jacobs clarified police did not give any approval for the demolition of shacks, explaining the absence of police visibility during the incident.
Despite the gravity of the situation, neighbours and residents of Magwaleni were too scared to comment on the matter.
