“Enough is enough, our people deserve to feel safe.”
Mogale City councillor and African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) representative Lydia Lebesa has condemned the ongoing rise in violent and property crimes across Mogale City , calling on residents, law enforcement, and the municipality to unite against the scourge of crime that continues to destabilise local communities.
Cllr Lebesa invited BAAGI News to help raise awareness of the issue after growing reports of armed robberies, hijackings, house break-ins, theft, and gender-based violence in the area. Krugersdorp, Kagiso, and surrounding townships have recently seen an uptick in incidents that have left residents living in fear.
“We can’t stay silent anymore. Every week, someone is robbed, attacked, or loses a loved one. Families are living in fear, that’s not the Mogale City we want,” said Cllr Lebesa.
According to recent police reports, robbery, assault, domestic violence, and vehicle theft remain among the most reported crimes in the West Rand district. Business owners have also raised alarms over repeated burglaries and vandalism, threatening livelihoods and community morale.
“When crime becomes normalised, we all lose, businesses suffer, children grow up afraid, and hope disappears,” added Lebesa. “We must work hand-in-hand with the police and community safety forums to take our city back.”
Cllr Lebesa urged residents to report crimes immediately, support local policing initiatives, and take part in community watch programmes. She also appealed to Mogale City Municipality to strengthen street lighting, install CCTV in known hotspots, and ensure visible policing, especially in areas with high youth unemployment and substance abuse challenges.
“Crime doesn’t stop with arrests alone. We need rehabilitation, education, and jobs. The fight against crime is also a fight for dignity and opportunity,” she said.
The councillor’s initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by local safety forums and civic groups who are calling for improved partnerships between citizens, businesses, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Mogale City crime overview
- Common crimes: robberies, hijackings, assaults, theft, and gender-based violence.
- Hotspot areas: Krugersdorp CBD, Kagiso, Munsieville, and surrounding industrial zones.
- Ongoing interventions: SAPS operations, community patrols, and municipal safety projects.
Lebesa hopes her call will mobilise residents to speak out and act collectively.
“Safety begins when communities refuse to live in fear. I’m asking everyone, report, volunteer, support. Let’s rebuild trust and bring peace back to Mogale City.”