Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, condemns attacks on staff

This afternoon (23 June 2023), four staff members from the Western Cape Department of Social Development (WCSD) were nearly hijacked in Site C, Khayelitsha. The staff members were on their way back from facilitating a substance use disorder and crime prevention programme along with the South African Police Services (SAPS) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

Fortunately, they were able to get away in their work vehicle, but they have been left very traumatized.

Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, and Nyanga, have been identified as hotspots for these kind of attacks on Western Cape Government (WCG) workers. This is not the first time WCDSD staff members have come under attack while attempting to perform their duties. When staff have to conduct home visits in these areas, they can usually only do so if accompanied by SAPS or law enforcement officers, which is not sustainable due to limited resources.

“I am deeply disturbed by the violent attack staff endured this afternoon and I condemn it in the strongest terms. To any community members who may have information that could lead to arrests, please contact the SAPS. I also implore residents to protect WCDSD staff, where it is safe and possible, when they are trying to deliver crucial services to communities. We cannot have a situation where staff members are unable to enter areas due to the callous acts of criminals. This could have dire consequences for vulnerable residents, like children,” says Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez.

The affected WCDSD staff members will receive the necessary counseling and support.

Journalists are requested to contact the SAPS for further information about the incidents.