Klerksdorp
The community of Alabama came together in a powerful show of unity on Monday, January 26, 2026, to march against the alarming levels of crime in their neighborhood. The march, which was held under the banner “Unite Against Crime,” drew hundreds of residents who are fed up with the violence and brutality that has plagued their community for far too long.
The march began at the open space opposite Excelsior Primary School in Ext. 3 Alabama and proceeded through the township to the N12 entrance of Alabama in Buitekant Street. The community’s demands were clear: they want visible policing, an end to the free trade of drugs and the operation of illegal taverns, and greater support and protection for vulnerable women and children.
The march was sparked by two recent incidents that have left the community in shock. On December holidays, a grade 11 learner, Samkelo Msibi, was brutally shot and killed for his R200. Just a week later, a 16-year-old girl, Desmonithe Cloete, was suffocated with a plastic bag over her head while tied to a chair by a foreign national. These incidents are just the latest in a long list of unresolved cases and cold cases that have haunted the Alabama/Manzilpark area for years.
Other incidents include the murders of Emolia Happy, Jakoba Jonkers, Nowal and Silla Smith, Bobbie Francis, Brendon Brown, and many others. The community is determined to take a stand against crime and ensure that their voices are heard.
The march was attended by Dr. KK Acting District Commissioner, Brigadier Juma, who was requested by the Acting Provincial Commissioner, General Naidoo, to receive the Memorandum of Demands. Also in attendance was Mr. Mohono, an official from the office of the MEC: Community Safety and Transport Management, Hon. Wessels Morweng. Both officials committed to reverting to the community within a 7-day response deadline.
The community’s demands include:
– Visible policing in the form of foot and vehicle patrols in crime hot spot areas
– Immediate temporary satellite police station with the view of the establishment of a permanent police station at a later stage
– Closure of drug houses and dwellings and also illegal taverns
– Prioritize support and protection of vulnerable women and children
– Prioritize the fight against GBV
Brigadier Juma reacted by saying that some of the demands are immediately reachable, while others would be escalated to a provincial level. The community remains vigilant and determined to see change.
The march was a powerful display of unity and determination, and it is clear that the community of Alabama will not be silenced. As one resident said, “Enough is enough.” The community demands action, and they will continue to fight for justice and safety until their demands are met.
