A peaceful march against crime and undocumented immigration took place in Thembisa on June 17, with residents, community organisations and stakeholders taking to the streets to highlight ongoing concerns affecting the area.

The march, organised by the TCF and the Xolani Khumalo Foundation and supported by the Insizwa no Bunsizwa Development Foundation, began at Thembisa Plaza, proceeded along Straight Line, and concluded at the Rabasotho Police Station, where a memorandum of demands was handed over to Thembisa SAPS.

The event was also supported by various community figures, including Phakel’umthakath, Themba Skeen, GP Lukhele and Zandile Dabula.

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Organisers said the aim of the march was to raise concerns about crime, unemployment and undocumented immigration, and to call for stronger cooperation between law enforcement and community structures.

At the handover, Xolani Khumalo of the Xolani Khumalo Foundation addressed participants, saying community involvement was key in addressing crime.

“We have reached a point where we need stronger action to address crime in our communities. We are here to ask how we can work with the police to help tackle crime. The community has a role to play, and we believe cooperation is essential,” said Khumalo.

He added that residents are deeply affected by issues such as drug abuse and unemployment, which continue to be a concern in several parts of Thembisa.

“The issues of drugs and unemployment are affecting our communities, and we need collective action to address them. We are here to engage and find solutions together with law enforcement,” he said.

The memorandum was received and acknowledged by Thembisa SAPS station commander, Brigadier Cyril Nkuna, who signed the document in the presence of community members.

Police confirmed that the memorandum would be reviewed and processed through the relevant channels.
The march remained peaceful throughout, although several businesses in parts of Thembisa were closed for the duration of the event as a precautionary measure.

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Organisers described the turnout as a reflection of growing community concern over safety and economic challenges in the area.

The atmosphere remained tense in some parts of Thembisa, particularly around busy trading areas, while organisers maintained that the march was conducted peacefully and within legal parameters.