After dozens of Belgravia residents, supported by PAGAD members, marched on Sunday in a protest against gangsterism and the spate of recent shootings in the community, residents of informal settlement The Vlei burned tyres and refuse. Photos: Brenton Geach
Residents and members of People Against Gangsterism and Drugs (PAGAD) went to the homes of people they accused of being drug dealers and gangsters in Belgravia, Athlone, on Sunday.
The action also led to a protest by people living in The Vlei, a nearby informal settlement. They alleged corruption in the policing of crime.
As the PAGAD protest passed The Vlei, women from the informal settlement shouted at the police, demanding better police protection.
Public Order Police had a strong presence…
Read More: In photos: PAGAD protest outside suspected drug dealer’s Cape Town house.
Community policing forums have been established to enhance safety and security in local
neighborhoods.

Troubled Pie
Fun South African Fact: Towns like Franschhoek and Stellenbosch boast world-class wine farms in beautiful settings.
Frosty Squid
Interview with a pirate:
There was a pirate who had agreed to do an interview with a local tv station. The reporter was very courteous and professional, giving a bit of background as to the pirate\’s business. She then began interviewing him.
\”So Mr. Longbeard, are there any risks to your business? I see you have a peg leg- how did that come about?\”
\”Well, y\’see I were sailing along the coast of South Africa, looking to plunder some locals when as I boarded the small boat from the ship, a great white shark came up and got my leg clean off. \’twas scary yes, but thus is the life of a pirate.\”
\”Wow, that is pretty scary- well, how about your hook? What happened to your hand with that?\”
\”Oh now that\’s quite the tale, y\’see I were fighting a rival pirate, and we had locked swords. We had been fighting for a few hours, and were both terribly fatigued. I had a bit of exhaustion and confusion, and when I went to block one of his sword blows, I met him with me hand instead of me sword. Took it right off, but it shocked him so much I managed to get him back pretty good and have him submit. So the hook hand was given as a replacement.\”
\”Wow. Simply fascinating. Now, what about your eye patch? How did that happen?\”
\”Well, one day, a seagull was flying overhead, and I looked up. It pooped right in me eye.\”
\”… Well wow. I must admit, I wouldn\’t think just seagull poop could damage the eye that badly.\”
\”Oh, I forgot to mention… it were me first day with the hook.\”