Zim Exiles Forum urges vigilance amid SA migrant attacks

Chronicles of Zimbabwean Returnee from neighbouring South Africa Obey Sibanda, Chronicle Reporter Zibusiso Maziwa, a Zimbabwean who relocated to South Africa several years ago in search of better economic opportunities, has decided to return home, citing the increasingly dangerous environment he endured while living in Alexandra, one of Johannesburg’s most crime-ridden townships. His firsthand experience sheds light on the harsh realities many migrants face in South Africa’s urban areas, where high crime rates and gang violence are prevalent. Speaking about his time in Alexandra, Maziwa described a community plagued by insecurity. “Every day, you hear stories of people being robbed, assaulted, or worse. The gangs control entire neighborhoods and carry out violent attacks with little fear of law enforcement intervention,” he explained. According to Maziwa, the police presence is minimal and often ineffective, leaving residents vulnerable to criminal activities with little hope of justice. One particular incident that deeply affected Maziwa and ultimately influenced his decision to leave South Africa involved a couple from the township. The couple became targets of a local family that accused them of pushing their child into a river, resulting in the child’s tragic drowning. Despite the absence of any conclusive evidence, the allegations sparked widespread hostility. The children were reportedly playing on the Juskei River, where the now deceased was pushed by one of the neighbourhood’s child. “The family faced threats from the accusing family, which quickly escalated into violent gang attacks,” Maziwa recounted. “Their house was set on fire, and they were constantly harassed. What shocked me most was that even after reporting these incidents to the police, no arrests were made. The police claimed there was no proof to prosecute, effectively leaving the family to fend for themselves.” “On 20 October 2023, the wife was actually raped by the same people and did not report the incident because they were afraid of the police and the gangs that were threatening them. The gangs further threatened the husband, stating that his wife must go and work for them in Cape Town as a sex worker, that is how dangerous these people were,” added Maziwa. This failure of the justice system, combined with the persistent threat of violence, created an environment of fear and helplessness. Maziwa witnessed neighbors abandoning their homes and businesses to escape the escalating tensions and dangers. “It was clear to me that if the law enforcement agencies can’t protect innocent people, then the situation will only worsen,” he said. Reflecting on his experience, Maziwa explained that the decision to return to Zimbabwe was not taken lightly. “I initially came here hoping to build a better life, but the dangers became too much to bear. I realized that no amount of money or opportunity is worth risking my safety and peace of mind,” he said. His story highlights the complex challenges faced by many Zimbabweans and other migrants in South Africa, who come seeking economic stability but instead encounter violence, discrimination, and inadequate protection. The deteriorating security situation in townships like Alexandra underscores the urgent need for improved policing and community safety initiatives. Back in Zimbabwe, Maziwa hopes to rebuild his life and contribute to his community. “I am grateful to be home, where I can live without the constant fear that I experienced abroad,” he said. His experience serves as a cautionary tale to others considering migration to South Africa and calls attention to the broader issues of crime and governance in the region.