Download PDFCrime in our communities is not new, but what is becoming more alarming is the growing sense that those meant to protect us are no longer doing so. Over the years, we have seen an increase in crime in our communities. The South African Police Service is failing us, and nothing is being done.
The lack of proper police services has become one of the main concerns in Eldorado Park. Residents have raised serious issues about safety and how it affects the community as a whole. People are living in constant fear because of ongoing violence.
For the past five years, Eldorado Park has experienced severe gang-related violence. Community members fear for their own lives and the lives of their children. Many residents say they cannot even go to the shops without fear of being caught in crossfire.
Gang violence has also entered schools. Teachers are afraid to teach children who are linked to gangs. This has become an ongoing issue, and there seems to be little to no action taken by police officials.
As a community, we plead with the government to take action against this ongoing violence. Innocent people are losing their lives at the hands of gangs. On 7 March 2026, a young mother of two was shot and killed. It is alleged that she was sitting outside a friend’s house when a gunman drove past and opened fire. She was not the intended target and died on the scene.
In many cases, crimes are not reported because residents are afraid. There is a strong belief in the community that some police officers are working with gangs. People fear that if they open a case or identify suspects, the information will be leaked, and they will be threatened or harmed.
It is deeply upsetting that people do not feel safe in their own community. The very people who are supposed to protect us are seen as part of the problem. Crime is increasing, trust in the police is low, and this is affecting both homes and local businesses. Communities cannot function properly under these conditions.
The Impact on the Community
The lack of adequate policing has a serious impact on residents’ sense of safety and security. Some of the main concerns include:
- Increased crime due to ineffective policing
- Decreased trust in law enforcement
- Negative impact on local businesses and property value
- Reduced community engagement and cooperation with authorities
These issues create a cycle of fear and mistrust, making it even harder to fight crime.
A Call for Better Policing
As a community, we are calling for better police services. We want to feel safe in our homes and streets again. We need accountability, stronger action against gangs, and police officers who serve and protect the people. The best way to go about it is to do the policing in consultation with communities.
Only then can trust be rebuilt, and only then can our community begin to heal. Only when communities are involved and when SAPS are answerable to communities can the problems be alleviated and safety improve.
This article is an opinion piece submitted on 16 March 2026. The views expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect those of Karibu! Online or Khanya College. You may republish this article, so long as you credit the authors and Karibu! Online (www.Karibu.org.za), and do not change the text. Please include a link back to the original article.
