GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Distressed residents of Umasizakhe in Graaff-Reinet marched from Tambo Square to the Magistrate's Court on Friday morning, to protest the poor conviction rate of violent criminals.
Those attending wore black in solidarity with community members who have been murdered and raped, and whose cases have not yet been finalised.
Ward 6 councillor, Thembile Tshona and ward 4 councillor, Xolile Galada were both active participants in the march.
Many placards were seen, some highlighting other crime-related problems in the area.
About 300 people were present in Church Street when the petition was handed over to the Clerk of the Court. Bishop Yalolo prayed with those present for an end to violence, and for justice for the victims.
The crowd was addressed by Galada, who read out the petition. He stressed that the community has had enough: "We are tired of being victimised and afraid in our community. We are tired of seeing women and children raped and murdered," he read.
Many problems are associated with the drug abuse crisis in the community.
In an appeal to the courts, Galada also spoke about the problems of violent criminals who often re-offend when out on bail, and drug dealers who are given bail.
The names of five women from Umasizakhe who had been raped and killed in recent years were read out, and mention was made of a teenage girl and young boy who were both raped in 7de Laan's Newlands Stadium in the last few weeks.
"In June 2017, and August 2018, this same community gave in petitions about the same problem. No response was received," said a frustrated Galada.
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