Shots fired at waste collections staff and security escorts in Browns Farm
21 November 2024
Staff from Urban Waste Management: Collections and their security escort came under fire in Marcus Garvey, Browns Farm today while attempting to deliver services in the community.
UWM
has been forced to deliver services under security escort in this area for some
time now due to threats from criminals and demands for protection money to
operate safely in the area. It is not yet confirmed if this latest attack is
related to these extortion attempts.
Four
security guards were shot during the attack. Two were taken to hospital from
the scene and one is in critical condition, with multiple wounds to the chest
and abdomen. The other two managed to leave the area in a refuse collection
vehicle and were later picked up from the depot by the ambulance and taken for
medical treatment.
Unfortunately
due to this attack, it will be necessary to
withdraw solid waste services in the area until further notice. We ask that
residents please do what they can to help minimise dumping until it is safe for
the City to return. Recycling and composting can help reduce the waste that
goes to the wheelie bin.
The
following areas can expect disruption to waste collection services as a result
of this incident. The City will provide updates on restoration of services in
due course.
- Marcus Garvey-Browns Farm
- Lower Crossroads
- Samora Machel
- Unathi Bester- Phillipi
‘These
threats and attacks against staff working to uphold the basic rights of our
most vulnerable communities must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
Disruptions of services that so many depend on for their health and well-being
are unacceptable.
Our
thoughts are with the communities affected by the service disruption and we
remain committed to restoring services as quickly as possible while ensuring
the safety of our workers. We call on SAPS and the public to stand with us in
protecting those who serve our City. We also wish the security guards all the
best with their recovery,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste
Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
