Residents in Westridge, Mitchells Plain, say they are living in fear as an alleged illegal shebeen continues to operate in their neighbourhood despite repeated arrests, fines, and enforcement action, with ongoing gang-linked activity raising concerns about safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement.
Community members describe the property as a persistent hotspot for gang-related activity, alleging that it attracts drug use, underage drinking, and individuals linked to local gangs. According to residents, the situation has deteriorated to the point where fear and intimidation now shape daily life, with many unwilling to speak publicly or provide evidence due to concerns about retaliation.
Several residents claim that the owner of the premises has been arrested multiple times, yet continues to return and resume operations shortly after being released. This cycle of arrest and return has created a perception within the community that enforcement measures are not having a lasting impact, undermining confidence in both policing and the broader justice system.
Allegations of violence linked to the property have further heightened tensions. Residents have reported incidents involving assaults and threats, with claims that weapons and aggressive behaviour are frequently involved. While many of these accounts remain difficult to verify independently due to the reluctance of witnesses to come forward, the consistency of the reports has raised concern among local officials.
For many in Westridge, the impact is immediate and personal. Residents say they have adjusted their daily routines, avoiding certain streets, limiting movement after dark, and in some cases remaining indoors to reduce the risk of confrontation. The sense of insecurity has contributed to growing frustration, particularly as complaints have been raised repeatedly over several years.
Ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts said the issue predates his time in office and has been escalated through multiple channels since 2021, including engagement with the South African Police Service, city law enforcement, and other authorities. Inspections carried out in response to complaints confirmed that alcohol was being sold without a valid licence, resulting in fines and compliance notices being issued.
Despite these interventions, follow-up inspections have indicated that illegal activity has continued. City Law Enforcement has confirmed that a formal case has been opened and that further legal processes are under way, including action related to land use contraventions and non-compliance with official notices.
Potts has also raised concerns about structural changes to the property, including allegations that additional buildings were erected and that parts of the site may have extended onto municipal land, potentially obstructing pedestrian access. These issues have been escalated to senior city officials as part of a broader call for a coordinated response.
A key concern raised by both residents and local leadership is the effectiveness of penalties. Fines issued in previous enforcement actions have not prevented the alleged continuation of operations, leading to calls for stronger measures that go beyond financial penalties.
Authorities are urging residents to continue logging complaints and building formal records of incidents, which can support legal action. However, for many in the community, fear remains the most significant barrier to cooperation, as the risk of being identified continues to outweigh the perceived protection offered by enforcement.
The situation in Westridge highlights a broader challenge faced across parts of the Cape Flats, where enforcement processes, community safety, and the persistence of gang-linked activity intersect. As legal action continues, residents are left waiting to see whether current interventions will bring lasting change or whether the cycle of arrest and return will continue.
Source: IOL – Lilita Gcwabe
