GOOD Statement by Grechard Petersen, GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor:
GOOD Stellenbosch expresses its deep concern and sadness following the recent shootings in Franschhoek which resulted in the loss of lives and left the community traumatised and fearful.
These violent incidents have once again highlighted the urgent need for increased law enforcement presence, stronger policing visibility, and proactive crime prevention measures within Franschhoek and surrounding communities.
GOOD Councillor Grechard Petersen pleads with the South African Police Service, local law enforcement authorities, and all relevant safety stakeholders to urgently strengthen visible policing patrols, increase crime prevention operations, and improve response times in areas identified as crime hotspots.
Residents of Franschhoek deserve to feel safe within their homes, streets, workplaces, and public spaces. Communities cannot continue living under the fear of violent crime, shootings, gang-related activities, and lawlessness.
Councillor Petersen believes that the recent tragic events require an immediate and coordinated response from all spheres of government and law enforcement agencies. Public safety must remain a priority, and decisive action is needed to restore confidence and stability within the community.
We further call on:
- Increased police visibility throughout Franschhoek;
- More frequent law enforcement patrols in hotspot areas;
- Stronger cooperation between SAPS, municipal law enforcement, neighbourhood watches, and community policing forums;
- Urgent investigations into the recent shootings and related criminal activities; and
- Greater community engagement to assist in combating crime and protecting residents.
GOOD Stellenbosch extends its sincere condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who lost their lives during these tragic incidents.
Violence and criminality cannot become normalised within our communities. The people of Franschhoek deserve safer streets, stronger policing, and a justice system that protects law-abiding citizens.
“We call on all relevant authorities to urgently intervene and increase visible policing within Franschhoek. Communities must feel protected, and criminals must know that law enforcement is present and active,” said Cllr. Grechard Petersen of GOOD Stellenbosch.
GOOD Stellenbosch will continue advocating for safer communities, accountable governance, and stronger public safety interventions across Stellenbosch Municipality. We recognise that policing alone cannot defeat crime; real and lasting change will only come when the underlying social ills are addressed.
GOOD Manifesto on Civic Engagement: Encouraging active community participation in governance.
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