BONTAS TAKES ON SKOLLIES

SIX mense were arrested during march held in Bonteheuwel on Sunday after skollies threw stones at PAGAD VIVA member in a confrontation.

PAGAD VIVA Secretary Zahrah Kriel told the Daily Voice that the march was planned following ongoing crime in communities, deaths and drug trade.

Kriel says: “The community of Bonteheuwel called on PAGAD to assist in taking back the streets and the turnout showed that they had had enough.

“During the march, a large group of gangsters came from the opposite direction screaming threats and that was their mistake.

"Once they started shouting and walking brazenly towards us PAGAD security ran towards them. They then turned around and fled the scene.”

According to reports, skollies also threw stones at members and the community, but SAPS public order police officials (POPS) were also on the scene and made chase while the march continued.

Kriel added that it is clear that gangsters are becoming more sterkgevriet as their criminal activities are not being stopped.

She said: “They know that police are not afraid. But PAGAD does not fear anyone, but Allah. PAGAD fears no one but the Almighty and gangsters know this and that is why they fled.”

Police spokesperson Warrant officer Joseph Swartbooi said cops were dispatched to the area following a confrontation between known gang members and the community.

Swartbooi reports: “The police members and community came under attack near the corners of Amandel Road and Jakkalsvlei Avenue. The POPS members took action and detained six suspects for public violence.”

Bontas ward councillor Angus McKenzie told the Daily Voice that he has previously been vocal on working with any organisation that is determined to ensure a safer community.

McKenzie added: “I was consulted by PAGAD on Friday [22 August] afternoon with regards to the murder of the 3-month-old baby and if they could come into the area. 

“I welcomed them into the area. I can also say that the clashes between SAPS and the community is unfortunate, there is no space for retaliation or fighting. We all have to work together in this community to create a safer place and that includes gangsters as well.

“Gangsters have a role to play, to change their way of operation, to change their lives and to work alongside every single good-meaning community member in Bonteheuwel.”

He added that if any other organisations is willing to work with him, his door is open. However he does condemn any form of violence including gangsterism and GBV.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates Court on 26 August facing charges of public violence.