Diepsloot residents have called on law enforcement agencies to urgently address concerns around crime, illegal firearms, drug-related activities and undocumented foreign nationals living in the area.

The community handed over a memorandum to the Diepsloot Police Station on July 16, requesting greater cooperation between residents, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Home Affairs.

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The memorandum was submitted by community representative Andrew Maleka.
Organiser Jacob Shika said, “This march was organised by the people of Diepsloot. It is not about one person or one organisation. The community came together because they have serious concerns that need to be addressed”.

Maleka added that the march formed part of a wider national campaign and that residents would continue engaging with authorities until they received responses.

“This is not the last time we will be coming here. From now on, every Thursday, we will come and engage until this matter is resolved. We want to work with the police and find solutions because Diepsloot is our home and we want it to be safe.”

The memorandum called for lawful door-to-door operations involving SAPS and Home Affairs to verify immigration documents, action against illegal firearm owners, intensified operations targeting drug dealers and increased visible policing in the community.

Residents also requested that police provide feedback and a proposed action plan within 24 hours of the date the memorandum was submitted.

Maleka emphasised that the community wanted to raise its concerns peacefully and work together with authorities.

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“People must understand that Diepsloot is a peaceful community. Today we showed that we can march with dignity and respect without damaging property. We are not here to create problems; we are here because we have grievances that need to be addressed through the correct channels.”

The Diepsloot Police Station acting commander, who did not want to be interviewed by the publication and therefore would not provide his name, acknowledged receipt of the memorandum and encouraged residents to continue sharing information that could assist police investigations.

“We are working together with the community and community policing structures because we need your support. Without information from residents, it becomes difficult for us to fight crime effectively.”

He urged residents to report information relating to drug activities, illegal firearms and criminal activities, saying cooperation between police and the community remained important.

“On the issue of undocumented foreign nationals, we understand the concerns raised by the community. This is a national matter, and we will engage the Department of Home Affairs so that they can assist in addressing these concerns.”

He concluded that community leaders listed on the memorandum would be contacted after police management had considered the requests, but could not promise to give feedback within the requested 24 hours.

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