Following the tragic passing on the weekend of Joe Kanyona, a 33-year old husband, father and Beerhouse doorman, concerns and opinions are circulating heavily around the safety of Long Street, with reports now even coming to light of a Morrocan-run extortion racket working businesses along the stretch.
Yesterday we ran a feature about what could be done about the street, with a lot of feedback and concerns emanating from it – even interested parties willing to make a difference stepping forward.
John Davidson, owner of Bob’s Burger Bar, has spoken out about this racket and first-hand accounts of them. Listen to the intriguing account on CapeTalk here:
Beerhouse was rocking yesterday as proceeds on the night were given to Joe’s family. Additionally, a funding page has been set up and tonight is another fundraiser:
Quiz Night tonight with @OMGquiznights is a special one with a portion of the proceeds going to Joes family. #RIPJoe pic.twitter.com/OVM9oDqkKH
— BEERHOUSE on Long (@BEERHOUSE) June 23, 2015
In the meantime. Twitter users have been voicing their opinion about Long Street:
Post your ideas how we can #SaveLongStreet > http://t.co/HxKIxsL06N. BIG up to @CapeTownETC http://t.co/FMWEBIvOUs pic.twitter.com/3mRCaaHwAU — Dylan Moore (@MrCPT) June 23, 2015
i worked on long street for a good 6 years, it’s my home away from home. say no to all crime & take back your street. #savelongstreet
— texx (@texxonfire) June 22, 2015
Ten years ago I would walk down Long Street by myself at night. Now I don’t even like driving down it #SaveLongStreet
— Bev Klein (@BevCPT) June 22, 2015
#LongStreet needs help. @CityofCT needs to fix the crime & drug problem ASAP. Don’t let it go past the point of no return @helenzille — Daddy (@LifeisSavage) June 22, 2015
As someone who loves and lives Cape Town, what is the solution with Long Street? @CapeTownEtc @CapeTalk @daalliance #capetown #longstreet — Mark Keohane (@mark_keohane) June 23, 2015
What ever happened to the idea of pedestrianising the top half of #LongStreet @LongStreetLife @CapeTownCCID @CityofCT? — Up Cycles (@UpCyclesZA) June 22, 2015
THIS #SAVELONGSTREET MOVEMENT IS ACTUALLY AMAZING. THIS CITY BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE, NOT THE THUGS. FUCK EM. LET’S TAKE IT BACK.
— KEEN (@KEENANMULVANEY) June 23, 2015
There has been no word yet from the CCID or the Democratic Alliance about this. Let’s take the city back.
Photography Ruth Smith Photography
Lehan van Heerden
As far as I can fathom..Long Street has succumbed to a’mafia’ group who promise security at rates. Most pubs and restaurants pays these fees? If you don’t belong you get hit. What kind of society do we live in or encourage?
Absolutely I agree . WHAT kind of society do we live in ! I ask you!!
Great initiative!
Dont let them win
#joburgincapetown
We need Elliot Ness
This has been going on for years. The bouncers are a gang on their own. We should focus on making the streets safe then move on to the rackiteers
Oh I wish Cape Town doesnt become like JHB cbd
Sounds like we’re going back to the 90’s.
Disgusting – do believe the “cape mafia” thing – crime pays UNTIL good people are fed up – and that is starting to happen – re-open Robben Island for “business”
The only way is for people to stop frequenting any establishment on long street until business owners are forced as a conglomerate to bring the issue to the for with the city of cape town.
People complain, but you will still see people out “enjoying” themselves oblivious to reality
The only way is for people to stop frequenting any establishment on long street until business owners are forced as a conglomerate to bring the issue to the for with the city of cape town.
Safe the Cape Flats….. More people die on the Cape Flats but u dont c any out cry from the DA led government
Dumb white people at home alone on their computers are definitely going to save long street with hash tags.
I would like to read some truly valid and creditable reasons why we should save Long street. Its clear that the fear of loss is greater than thought of potential gain/improvement that could come with change.Lets see those reasons.
Should read BELONG Street…..
I’ve been working in this street for 7 years and it used to be a party street now its no more. Many bar, pubs and clubs have closed which is contribute to over crowding on busy days. There’s no more street parties and festivals only night clubs are still doing their own thing. Also ccit security is very corrupt, there is needed well trained and new security. LONG STREET HAS REALLY CHANGED. Action is needed.
The Chinese TRIADS
Will Sort Out Long St.
You Don’t Mess With Them.
They Are The New Afica
There is nothing to save long street is fine
Save*
Thks Hess
whats wrong with long street, i love going there for 30 years already. i dont drink nor do drugs, i enjoy the vibe.
Should always be long street. Otherwise one doesnt know where you are.
one street at a time ?