Welkom – once a thriving city, it now finds itself in a state where crime, particularly vandalism, occurs in broad daylight with little fear of repercussions.
Criminals take whatever they can, regardless of ownership, and even undocumented foreigners seem unafraid of our legal system.
When comparing South African jails to those in neighbouring countries like Lesotho, it is clear why there is little deterrence.
In Lesotho, jails are feared, with few willing to endure incarceration a second time.
Here, however, our correctional facilities are often described as “hotels,” offering little to dissuade repeat offenders.
While poverty and unemployment are often cited as drivers of crime, it is worth noting that many of these criminal acts are not impulsive but carefully planned.
The energy and strategic thinking employed in such activities could rather be channelled into more creative and constructive endeavours, benefiting the community rather than continually harming it.
The cityscape bears the scars of unchecked vandalism.
Scrapyards, seemingly the main beneficiaries, thrive on the remains of what were once valuable properties.
Amogela Mall, a prominent structure, has become a symbol of neglect. Its once-bustling premises now lie in ruins, posing both a danger and a disgrace to Welkom.
The decay extends beyond the mall.
A building adjacent to the Matjhabeng Municipality and various banks, not far from the police’s operational offices, has been stripped bare without intervention.
The iconic Welkom Showgrounds, a landmark of the past, is no more – another victim of inaction by those entrusted with safeguarding our community assets.
In response to questions about law enforcement’s role in preventing vandalism, Brig. Makhele of the South African Police Services (SAPS), says he feels it is unfair to try to dump such conduct at the door of the police.
“The buildings you are referring to are having either an individual or a company holding its title deed, like your house and my house.”
We are responsible for security, not the police.
“Should one open a case where his or her property has been damaged in any manner, that is when the police come in to investigate. But we are not responsible to guard any private building to ensure it is not vandalised.
“Hence, I am saying whoever is the owner is responsible for pressing charges.
“Should the police arrest anyone for such vandalism, the case will not even stand in any court, as the court would want the statement of the owner who pressed the charges against whoever. The police cannot do that on their behalf.”
Brig. Makhele’s response underscores the importance of property owners taking initiative to secure their premises and pressing charges to enable the police to act within the confines of the law.
When approached for comment, Tsiliso Tlali, spokesperson for the Matjhabeng Municipality, highlighted efforts to address the state of the Amogela Mall.
Tlali says the municipality has engaged extensively with the liquidator of the company that owns the Mall.
He says that over the past two months, they have held three meetings to address critical issues related to the property.
“The liquidator confirmed that no funds are available in the liquidation to cover security costs.
“Consequently, we requested an affidavit permitting arrests on the premises. This affidavit has been provided and forwarded to the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and the SAPS for necessary action.
“Furthermore, we have addressed the municipal account to facilitate the potential sale of the property. A resolution has been reached to enable this process,” he says.
To ensure a sustainable future for the mall, the municipality is actively engaging with stakeholders to identify potential investors capable of rebuilding and taking ownership of the property.
“The municipality remains dedicated to finding viable solutions for Amogela Mall, fostering its revitalisation for the benefit of the community,” he says.
The situation in Welkom underscores a dire need for accountability and community involvement.
It is time for communities to take collective responsibility, either by demanding action, speaking out against observed wrongdoing, and fostering collaboration to restore and protect the city’s assets.
The decay of Amogela Mall and other properties is a stark reminder of the cost of complacency.
If Welkom is to regain its former glory, both citizens and leaders must step up to secure its future. – Wesley Manako, community reporter