Months Later, Still No Arrests - Wild Coast Communities Demand Justice and Safety

Wild Coast, South Africa – Months after raising alarm over a violent crime spree in Xhora Mouth and surrounding villages, the communities remain gripped by fear and frustration. On 5 September 2024, over 350 residents marched to the Elliotdale Police Station, demanding urgent action from the South African Police Services (SAPS). Despite providing detailed information on suspects and case numbers, no arrests have been made, leaving residents feeling abandoned.

Rising Crime and Its Devastating Impact

Since February 2024, a known gang has been linked to at least six armed robberies, kidnappings, and vehicle thefts across the 20km stretch between Bulungula and Coffee Bay. These crimes have devastated local livelihoods, heightened fear, and threatened tourism, the economic backbone of the region.

Recent arrests in Mdumbi (source) provided a glimmer of hope, but suspects were quickly released on bail. Meanwhile, a broader crime wave continues to grip the Eastern Cape, stretching from Mthatha (source).

Despite Carte Blanche highlighting these crimes (video), SAPS has failed to make arrests. Officials claim cases have been escalated to provincial levels and cite community reluctance to act as witnesses.

However, Gareth Newham, crime and policing expert from the Institute for Security Studies, dismissed these excuses:

Victims and community members are left questioning:What possible reason could there be for this inaction?

Community Efforts and Limited Progress

Since the September march, small steps have been taken, including:

• Deployment of a mobile police station.
• Increased police patrols.
• Establishment of a Community Policing Forum (CPF), with SAPS training to strengthen local crime prevention.

While appreciated, these measures feel superficial without meaningful arrests or tangible progress.

Demands for Action

With the festive season approaching—a time for family, cultural ceremonies, and tourism—the people of Xhora Mouth are calling for urgent intervention:

1. Arrest the Suspects: SAPS must act immediately to apprehend the identified perpetrators.
2. Deploy Specialist Investigators: Assign experts to stabilise crime in the region over a two-year period.
3. Fast-Track Justice: Collaborate with the Department of Justice to expedite pending cases.

Ntsikelelo Mbangasini, Headman of Nqileni Village, expressed his concerns:

A Call for Accountability

The Wild Coast communities are united in their demand for justice and safety. They urge the SAPS and the Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner to act decisively. Without immediate intervention, the region risks further economic and social destabilisation during this critical period.

For more information, visit Equality Collective or contact Headman Ntsikelelo Mbangasini through the Equality Collective.

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