With multiple tavern and saloon robberies, house break-ins, and shootings, the alarming level of crime in Alexandra has left residents in fear. It has left them with a stark choice: To either retreat into their homes and hope the violence does not reach their doorstep, or to rise together to confront the crisis head-on. For many, including local councillors, silence is no longer an option.

A number of residents have joined forces to break the silence and reclaim their streets. The latest voice to rally the community was Ward 108 councillor Deborah Francisco, who issued a call for unity and action. “There comes a time when we must unite and fight crime, because you do not know who will die [next], when you say you do not care.”

Read more: Police urge Alexandra residents to help curb violent crime 

Her remarks hit hard, especially since crime, especially gun violence, in Alexandra affects all residents indiscriminately, claiming the lives of taxi operators, business owners, and ordinary residents alike.

The police believe that the suspects live among the very people they terrorise, yet a chilling silence hangs over the township, making it increasingly hard for the police to crack down on suspected gunmen in the area.

“The community knows what is happening,” Colonel Jerry Phaswana, acting station commander at Alexandra Police Station, said. “Not all, but some members know where these guns are. If they have information, they should bring it.”

Also read: Alexandra crime spike prompts SAPS response

Phaswana acknowledged the deepening trust deficit between residents and police, noting that they need to work to improve that. He also addressed the frustration many feel over alleged police inaction, stressing that complaints alone will not solve the crisis. “It would be better if they complain while bringing information forward.” He further urged residents to recognise their role in curbing crime by reporting known suspects.

As residents continue to the grapple with crime, calls for community intervention are rising, and, with them, a pressing question: Will the residents of Alexandra find the courage to speak out and expose the criminals hiding in plain sight?