Plett business community joins forces to find working solution for a safe town
AS service delivery protests by angry residents from Qolweni and other Bitou communities erupted anew, bringing the town to a commercial standstill, members of Plett Business Chamber and Ratepayers Association called business owners from all sectors to a meeting last Wednesday.
On the agenda was, among others, a class action against Bitou SAPS and the municipality, because of the adverse effects suffered by all as a result of the protests.
Concerns included safety of the business establishment from looting and vandalism during protests; the fact that workers are deprived of their right to go to work: and the damage to Plett s general image – a brand that they have worked hard for to maintain for many years.
Speakers collectively urged the police to work extra hard, and the municipality to stop making empty promises to the people of Plett.
“Our communities have several grievances and as we sympathise with some of their gripes, we could in a correct manner try and assist our fellow citizens.
“But the lawless criminal activities are totally unacceptable, said Plett Business Chamber chair Mike Scholtz.
“Here we hold the SAPS – our protectors and law enforcers – accountable. They are either not sufficiently interested in the problem, or they are not adequately equipped or capable to handle criminal activities.”
Due to the seriousness of these concerns, a letter was sent to the office of national police commissioner Khehla Sitole to make the national government aware of Plett’s plight.
Responding to their call, Plett Police station commander colonel Nolan Michaels assured the business community that the police were making use of all resources available to ensure the safety of businesses and citizens alike.
However, looting and vandalism caused mayhem in the industrial area on the day after the meeting, and SAPS Knysna spokesman sergeant Chris Spies confirmed by noon on July 6 that 81 arrests had been made in connection with public violence and damage of property (see the report below).
Members of the Plett business community concurred that much of the destruction could have been prevented, had there been more visible law enforcement.