City concerned by the growing attacks on Waste Services
03 October 2023
Gugulethu is the latest area of Cape Town where the City unfortunately had to withdraw refuse collection staff due to threats of attack unless the City pays protection fees. Other affected areas are Philippi East/Lower Crossroads and Nyanga. In addition, a flare up of gang violence in Manenberg has led to temporary withdrawal of services until the area is calm again.
The City of Cape Town regrets to inform Gugulethu residents that the growing trend of criminals demanding protection money from the City of Cape Town has compelled the City to temporarily withdraw collection services from the community as a precautionary measure.
Collections teams in the area yesterday morning reported that they were being followed by vehicles of armed men.
'The City's Urban Waste Management (UWM) Directorate urgently calls on the South African Police Service to investigate and to take urgent action against the perpetrators of these schemes. Criminals cannot be allowed to hijack service delivery in this way,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.
The City's Urban Waste Management is exploring various ways to restore services as soon as possible including continuing to work with the Safety and Security Directorate.
The City calls on residents to please refrain from dumping uncollected waste, and to watch the media (including the City's social media channels) for further updates about clearing existing backlogs in the area, or possible adjusted waste collection schedules.
Counselling is available for staff.
In addition, residents of Manenberg are informed that services have been temporarily withdrawn due to a flare up of gang violence in the area. Any backlog that develops will be cleared as soon as UWM is advised that the area is again safe to operate.
Residents are reminded that the City has a dedicated tip-off line where information can be relayed 24-hours a day on 0800 110077. If the information leads to a successful arrest, or the recovery of stolen property or contraband, the person can receive a reward. They can remain anonymous.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
