Members of the uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party, alongside local residents, took to the streets today in a powerful demonstration against rampant crime and corruption in Nelson Mandela Bay. The march proceeded to the KwaZakhele Police Station—an area notorious for drug-related crimes and gang violence.
Protesters carried banners with slogans such as “No to Crime,” “No to Gangsterism,” and “Hands Off Our Children,” demanding increased police visibility and stronger action against lawlessness in their communities.
A Community Under Siege
Speaking during the march, Sandile Rwexwana, the MK Party’s government cluster leader in the region, highlighted the severe impact of crime on daily life.
“People are being killed in their homes, hijacked in broad daylight, and even schools are not safe,” Rwexwana said. “Criminals kick down doors, rob teachers of laptops, and businesses are forced to pay protection fees. Our children are growing up in a war zone.”
The protesters also accused some police officers of collaborating with criminals, further eroding trust in law enforcement.
“We know there are good police, but some are working with the very people terrorizing us,” Rwexwana added. “We need whistleblowers to come forward, just like General [Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi] has done.”
Call for Police Reform and Visibility
A key demand of the march was for improved police response times and greater visibility in high-crime townships. Many residents claim that despite the proximity of police stations, officers take too long to respond to emergencies.
“The police station is just across the road, yet crime happens unchecked,” said one marcher. “We need more officers, especially young, skilled individuals who can protect their own communities.”
The group submitted a petition to the local police station, urging authorities to address corruption within the force and take decisive action against criminal networks.
Solidarity with National Anti-Crime Efforts
The march also expressed support for national efforts to combat crime, with protesters using the hashtag #HandsOff in solidarity with whistleblowers and officials fighting corruption.
“We stand with those exposing crime at the highest levels,” Rwexwana stated. “If we don’t act now, the situation will only get worse.”
What’s Next?
Community leaders vow to continue mobilizing residents until tangible changes are seen. They plan further demonstrations and engagements with provincial authorities to push for safer neighborhoods and accountable policing.
As crime continues to plague Nelson Mandela Bay, the MK Party’s march signals a growing frustration among residents—and a determination to reclaim their streets from violence and corruption.
