Surviving the aftermath: KZN communities pick up the pieces

UPDATE: Community members urged to exercise caution

Reeling from shock. This is the reality of many businesses owners and residents following the aftermath of Monday, July 12, violent protests and looting.

Residents of Montclair are trying to pick up the pieces of what remains of their beloved community on Tuesday morning, July 13. Residents are reported to be making efforts to gather in groups to clean up destroyed shops and facilities in the area.

Several businesses and shops were looted and set alight throughout the day and night on Monday. Roads were also blockaded with burning tyres and rubble by protestors.

Montclair Animal Hospital was also looted but fortunately, no animals were harmed. “Our beloved vet was hit. Our hearts are broken but not one animal was harmed. Thank you to all who assisted us. The community has rallied around us and for that we are grateful,” said owner, Dr Yesh Govender.

“Last night, things eventually quietened down in Montclair and Woodlands. Most of the shops in the area are totally looted and are empty. Some shops were set alight in Montclair Mall. Everything was taken.

“There were community patrollers keeping an eye on the area as there were several vehicles coming into the community carrying a number of people suspected to protestors. Patrollers followed them until they left the area again in an effort to save whatever could be saved. Yellowwood Park and Woodhaven are still safe. We have a large contingent of residents guarding both entrances into the area and have been there throughout the night. It’s good to see them coming together to protect their area,” said ward 64 councillor Gavin Hegter.

In his call for peace, a disheartened Hegter said it is a sad reality that most of the destruction was by residents who relentlessly looted their own area.

Yellowwood Park and Woodhaven SPF chairperson, Kevin Matthews expressed his gratitude to the community for rallying together to safeguard the area. “I would like to thank each and every community member who came out and united as one to protect those we love, our homes and our neighbourhood. If there are still those who want to assist, there are community members at checkpoints. Thank you for the assistance from SAPS and security companies. There have been some friendships that have been built during these difficult times that will stand strong as we have over the past 24 hours,” he said.