Safety Fears Grow as Street Disorder Spreads in Komani CBD

Residents in Komani have raised growing concerns about safety in the town’s central business district (CBD) and surrounding streets, reporting an increase in individuals believed to be living on the streets and behaving erratically in public spaces.

Complaints from community members have particularly focused on areas along Cathcart Road and nearby streets, where residents say some individuals appear to be under the influence of drugs or experiencing mental health challenges.

Several residents told Komani News they have seen people wearing torn clothing, behaving aggressively and, in some instances, fighting with one another in broad daylight. Allegations that some individuals have been seen carrying knives have further heightened anxiety among residents and business owners in the area.

Police confirm increase in people staying on streets

In response to a media enquiry from Komani News, South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela confirmed that police are aware of an increasing number of people staying on the streets in the Komani CBD.

Police say some of these individuals appear to be struggling with mental health challenges, while others may be affected by substance abuse.

According to SAPS, sector managers conducting patrols in the town often attempt to move individuals away from business areas due to concerns about potential break-ins or disturbances.

Police also engage directly with individuals encountered on the streets, advising them to return home where possible. However, officers say many refuse to do so, often because their behaviour has already caused problems within their families or communities.

Policing challenges

SAPS indicated that when crimes are committed by individuals living on the streets, arrests are made where sufficient grounds exist.

However, police say enforcement can be difficult because individuals frequently change locations after complaints are lodged.

“Most of the time when a complaint is lodged about one of the street individuals, they tend to change their usual spot which makes it difficult to arrest,” police said.

Authorities also emphasised that the broader problem is closely linked to drug abuse, which they believe contributes to many crimes occurring in public spaces.

Police say efforts are ongoing to remove drugs from the streets through law enforcement operations.

Calls for broader government response

While policing forms part of the response, SAPS says the issue cannot be solved by law enforcement alone.

Authorities are calling for an integrated approach involving multiple government departments and social services to address the underlying causes.

This could include rehabilitation programmes for people struggling with substance abuse, accommodation for the homeless, and assistance with verifying identities and reconnecting individuals with their families where possible.

Such interventions, police say, could help reduce the number of vulnerable individuals living on the streets while also improving safety in the CBD.

Community safety concerns remain

Despite ongoing patrols, residents say the visible presence of people behaving unpredictably in busy public areas continues to cause unease.

Business owners in particular worry that aggressive behaviour or street fights could deter customers from visiting the CBD.

Community members are urging authorities to act quickly to restore a sense of safety in public spaces while also ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive appropriate support.

Residents are encouraged to report any criminal activity to SAPS so that police can respond and investigate where necessary.

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