Communities unite to protect Nigel

After the destruction and looting that took place in most parts of KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng recently, more and more good-vibe stories are brought to the light of communities that stood together to protect the town, residents and businesses.

Trevor Muller, Goodman Zwane, Fareed Mohammed and other members of Ubuntu Business Forum with the community members of Alrapark played a critical part in getting the community to stand together to protect the Nigel economy and food supply.

With the countrywide fear of looting on July 12, Muller, chairperson of Ubuntu Business Forum. made a request through a video recording to the greater Nigel area to join the forum and meet as a collective in an effort to protect the town.

“We gathered at Angelo Mall as our main base of operations. The management of Angelo Mall SPAR got on board and assisted our members with refreshments and support.

“The management of Hornox Steak House also came out in support. We want to extend our gratitude to various pastors from different denominations that came out in support of needed prayers and for the remarkable woman from our community of Nigel who made sure everyone was well fed,” Muller said.

Businesses and community members united, as some brought food and some blankets to keep the patrollers warm while they safeguard Nigel. The operation stretched over the past week.

“We worked closely with Nigel SAPS and was assured of their support. They visited our base regularly, ensuring all was in order. After my video request, a Whatsapp group was set up to ensure all members receive information in relation to looting attempts and to further ensure a quick response in case of any assistance needed by business owners or farmers,” Muller said.

He said Reaction and Tactical Forces (RET) and the Heidelberg Taxi association were also on board to assist.

“Our Muslim community members like Hamzha Casoojee, Yusuf Patel and Khalid Pochee headed the call and immediately assisted in safeguarding Nigel. Foreign business owners, community leaders from Duduza, NCOP and the Nigel Taxi Association were all on board and took hands to assist the mission,” Muller added.

“We are grateful towards each of our community members involved for the safety of Nigel and the livelihoods of its people and the well-being of its economy.”