Community shows unity in north anti-drug march
Families, churches, and local organisations called on police to investigate hotspots, increase visibility, and provide updates on arrests and progress.
North residents, community organisations, churches, schools, and local businesses united in an anti-drug campaign, delivering a strongly worded petition to the Pretoria North Police Station on August 16.
Led by Ward 2 Councillor Quentin Meyer, the march drew a diverse crowd, from school learners to cyclists, church members, and security companies. All voiced one demand: decisive police action against drug houses that have plagued the area for years.
At the heart of the petition is the infamous “White House” at 421 Broodryk Street, Wolmer, which residents describe as a hub of criminal activity.
For years, it has been a symbol of frustration and fear in the community, fuelling crime, addiction, and violence.
“We are tired of watching our children fall prey to drug lords operating with impunity.
“This petition is a clear message to SAPS that enough is enough. We want unannounced inspections, stronger police visibility, decisive action against known dealers, and progress updates shared with our community. If the White House is found guilty, by-laws must be enforced, and the property demolished,” said Meyer.
The petition calls for seven urgent interventions:
– regular unannounced inspections of drug houses,
– stronger police patrols across Ward 2,
– immediate investigations into known drug hotspots,
– safer parks for families,
– a full investigation into the White House,
– explanations on why arrested dealers are released quickly, and
– regular feedback to residents on progress.
The march was not just a symbolic action, but an outcry from ordinary residents who say they have endured fear and crime for far too long.
“We live in constant fear. Every night we hear cars stopping at these houses, people screaming, and sometimes even gunshots. Our children deserve safe streets and parks, not playgrounds for criminals,” said Marlene Kobus.
Another resident, Raymond Mokoena, who joined the petition handover, said drug activity has eroded trust in law enforcement.
“What breaks us is seeing known dealers arrested one day and walking freely the next. It feels like there is no justice. We want police to work with us, not just show up after crimes happen.”
Residents are demanding clear answers from the police on why suspected dealers are often released quickly, with some suggesting corruption or systemic weaknesses are at play.
Councillor Meyer said, “This was not just a march, it was a movement. When schools, businesses, and faith leaders join hands, it shows the power of unity. We will not rest until our community is free from drugs.”
The police acknowledged receipt of the petition, with spokesperson Sergeant Tumisang Moloto saying that the station continues to work with community structures to combat the drug issue in the area.
“We are working closely with the CPF and other NGOs to ensure that we are dealing with this issue of drugs properly.
“Remember, this issue of drugs doesn’t affect a certain area, so it’s important that we involve all the stakeholders in this process,” said Moloto.
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