WE MUST DEFEND OUR COMMUNITIES FROM RISING TIDE OF VIOLENCE, CRIME AND VANDALISM - MAYOR LOBISHE
Published: May 29, 2025<< BACK TO NEWS
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WE MUST DEFEND OUR COMMUNITIES FROM THE RISING TIDE OFVIOLENCE, CRIME AND VANDALISM” – MAYOR LOBISHE
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality is deeply alarmed by the escalating violence, gender-based crimes, infrastructure vandalism, and emotional distress affecting families across
our city and neighbouring areas like Addo. These recent events have cast a shadow over our Metro’s stability and humanity, and I speak today not just as Executive Mayor, but as a
mother, neighbour, and concerned citizen of this beloved city.
We are devastated by the brutal murder of a Collegiate High School learner and her mother, a horrific act of gender-based violence that has left an indelible scar on our collective conscience. Their lives were stolen, and we stand in solidarity with their loved ones and the broader school community during this time of unimaginable grief.
We are equally heartbroken over the recent deaths of a 14-year-old and a 7-year-old learner, whose passing is linked to silent struggles with mental health. These tragic
losses must compel us to listen more deeply, respond more swiftly, and build stronger systems of care and protection for our youth.
At the same time, our communities are enduring a disturbing increase in crime and destruction, including robberies, gang violence, and the deliberate vandalism of municipal infrastructure. Most appalling is the desecration of graves in Zwide, KwaZakhele, and Gelvandale, an act that disrespects our heritage and wounds our families’ dignity. We also acknowledge the violence impacting our neighbours in Addo and extend our sincere concern and solidarity, as they navigate these
traumatic challenges.
In response, the Municipality is working closely with the South African Police Service, provincial departments, ward councillors, faith leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society organisations to restore stability, secure our infrastructure, support families, and improve safety throughout the Metro.
Nelson Mandela Bay is a Metro of potential, dignity, strength, and hope. Let us not be defined by what breaks us, but by how we rise, protect one another, and honour the lives we have lost through meaningful change and action.
Ends.
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