Protestors in Khayelitsha attacked firefighters on the morning of Tuesday, July 21, leaving vehicles broken and in need of repairs. The attack has been strongly condemned by the City of Cape Town.
“It is counterproductive when members of the public actively choose to vandalise resources and assault City staff that work tirelessly to serve and help vulnerable communities. The pump, from Lansdowne Road fire station was on route to informal structures alight in the area, when the vehicle was surrounded along Mew Way, and stoned,” Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said in a statement.
“None of the five staff members on board were hurt, but they’re badly shaken up and we will support them through the City’s employee wellness programme. Several windows, including the windscreen and both doors were damaged, so the vehicle is out of commission until the repairs are done,” Smith added.
“I’m also informed that protestors in Gugulethu have gathered in front of the fire station, threatening to prevent staff from leaving to attend to calls if their grievances aren’t addressed,” Smith said. “These incidents are deplorable – but on cue with an emerging trend of targeting City infrastructure and employees in recent weeks. I condemn the callous acts that have put the safety of our staff in jeopardy, but have also robbed the communities of a valuable service. Once again the selfish behaviour of a few is putting the community at large at risk.
I call on any person with information about the attack on our firefighters to please report it to our Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialing 021 480 7700 from a cellphone. Reports can be logged anonymously,” added Smith
Picture: Supplied/City of Cape Town