Residents of Mayfield, Ekurhuleni, are living in fear and isolation, despite having been allocated serviced stands five years ago. Many of these families feel trapped, as their stands remain unoccupied by neighbors, and they have become easy targets for criminals. The situation has worsened due to vandalized toilets and abandoned infrastructure, which have provided hiding spots for criminals, making life unbearable for the residents.
A heartbreaking incident in November 2024 brought the community’s fears to a devastating head. One woman recounted how her mother was tragically killed by armed robbers who broke into their home in the dead of night. “We were asleep when we heard people kick the door and then point guns at us. Our parents woke up, and one of the thugs opened fire. Sadly, my mother was shot and died, but my father managed to escape unharmed,” she said. “Who will hear us when we scream because we are alone here?
Other residents have expressed frustration over the state of the unallocated stands, which remain stripped of essential fixtures like solar geysers, doors, windows, and toilet sets. “It’s sad to see taxpayer money going to waste. Some people are even stealing the bricks,” one resident said. They have appealed to the local municipality to allocate the remaining stands to families in need, hoping that the presence of neighbors will provide a sense of security and safety.
In response, Ekurhuleni municipal spokesperson Zweli Dlamini assured the residents that the municipality will investigate the situation and take necessary steps to address their concerns. For now, these families continue to live in fear, hoping that their cries for help will be heard and acted upon.
