Community security group evolving into area’s custodians

On dirty streets, more than a mop and broom are needed to the chase away the filth.

Started in mid-2020 as a community group wanting to remove the societal decay from their suburb, Roodepoort ICE continues to fill whatever gaps they can. Through daily patrols they have become a thorn in the side of criminal elements and a point of safety for residents to seek out when in danger. Their presence alone brings comfort and reassurance for the community needing to reclaim their streets.

The gang of bright lights and reflective gear generally meet at 19:00 in Exner Street to begin their patrols. Men and women of various ages, all passionate about improving the suburb they have grown up in, use their own resources to drive their ambitions. As with many community initiatives, numbers have fluctuated, but a committed group remain and have forged lasting friendships through their endeavours.

Patrols often follow the same pattern that begins in Rex Street and the parking lot across from the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court. The area is a popular place for prostitutes to promote their product, and patrons are happy to consume their purchase in the dark corners and along the fences. With a few torches and flashing lights, both are quick to end the transaction early and find another point of sale, most commonly in the streets leading up to Berlandina Street.

Like corralling cattle, Roodepoort ICE members herd the late-night lovers around the block that includes Roodepoort City Hall, until a complete disruption is successful. With Roodepoort ICE standing their ground on multiple corners, the odd disappointed customer is still seen circling the block more than once. Fathers with daughters and mothers with sisters, Roodepoort ICE want to chase this unsightly scourge from their lives.

After moving from hotspot to endless hotspot and once satisfied that the streets will be a little safer, their efforts turn humanitarian. Assisted by a bakery on Messelar Street, members hand out loaves of bread to small groups of men sleeping on the streets. Being regular recipients, the Roodepoort ICE team have been able to familiarise themselves with these groups and any unwanted foot traffic through the area.

Nights wind down with slow drives through the streets, building rapport with community members and politely questioning anyone acting suspicious. “We always start with handling people with respect. If you respect people they are more likely to respond in a respectful manner,” said Faeez Rahim, Roodepoort ICE’s head of operations. Every additional member creates a harder barrier for criminal elements to break down, but Roodepoort ICE members refuse to wait in vain, ensuring that they be their own shield.