Mandalay residents split on how to tackle rising crime
One of the longest street in Mandalay has become a problem to the community.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Residents of Mandalay are divided over the rising crime and criminal activity, which many say is plunging the area into chaos.
Frustrated by what they describe as "deteriorating safety conditions," some community members are calling for certain streets to be barricaded in an effort to curb criminal behaviour.
However, Sector 1 Sub Forum chairperson Thembinkosi Caso believes community engagement remains the most effective weapon in the fight against crime. Caso acknowledged the devastating toll crime has taken on families and individuals in Mandalay and urged both men and women to join the street committees and community policing forum initiative to help create a safer environment for future generations.
“I can confirm that we are facing a crime challenge, but we are not folding our arms,” he said.
He stated that criminals had previously targeted local kiosks, with 32 allegedly set alight. Others have been involved in stealing car tyres, leaving vehicles propped up on bricks.
“You wake up to find your car standing on bricks with no tyres. But I can confirm that those responsible were arrested and are now in jail,” he said.
Caso mentioned that just last Tuesday, a community campaign was held to encourage residents to become more actively involved in safeguarding Mandalay. As part of their strategy, they are looking at closing not only problematic streets but also so-called “white elephant” houses - abandoned or unoccupied properties allegedly used to store stolen goods.
He emphasised that restoring peace and security requires a united front and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods.
It is alleged that screams can be heard in the alley between Doctor Dickens Street and Auber Avenue, as people are robbed in broad daylight.
Image: Phiri Cawe
However, some residents argue that more drastic measures are needed. A resident who identified himself only as Ntobeko said the route connecting Dickens and Summerplace to Auber Avenue, often used as a shortcut by commuters and parents transporting children to school, has become particularly dangerous.
Ntobeko said that Mandalay has changed significantly over the years, citing the proliferation of shebeens and car washes that he claims are used to shield criminal activity. He expressed concern for his family’s safety after his son was recently robbed in the area.
A neighbour living along the same lane, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of harassment, described the street as a “criminal playground.”
“The cries and screams are unbearable. People walking from one side to the other are robbed here. It is also used as an escape route for criminals. Closing it would save many people,” she said.
Caso maintained that all concerns raised by residents have been reported to the police and that action is being taken.