The message is loud and clear – stay at home, and, for the most part, it seems many in the northern suburbs are doing just that, finding their own ways to cope with a strange new world.
As of Sunday March 29, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said there were 310 Covid-19 cases in the province with 14 hospitalised, three of those in intensive care. And the country had recorded 1 280 cases with two deaths.
“The increase in hospitalisation of patients should act as a stark warning to us all that this virus can have severe health effects,” said Mr Winde.
Nikita Govender lives in a complex in Goodwood and says that while most are abiding by the lockdown rules, drug peddlers still operate in broad daylight.
“There’s prostitution and swearing. Others are burning toxic waste that affects our lungs and health. It’s like a party,” says Ms Govender.
Complaints to City law enforcement are ignored, she says even the number given for reporting those who do not observe the lockdown and nothing happens.
Wayne Dyason, spokesperson for the City’s law enforcement, said they are assisting SAPS and the SA National Defence Force who are the lead agents in ensuring that citizens adhere to the national disaster act. Law Enforcement will visit the said address and he asks residents to report any criminal activity to SAPS at 10111.
Goodwood police spokesman Wayne Theunis said they have not received any complaints from residents in that area. He asks that people call the police station at 021 592 4430.
Jacques Coetzee took a picture of a visitor at an alleged drug house on the corner of Versfeld and Cambridge roads in Goodwood.
However, Mogamat Gamieldien says Goodwood, for the most part , is playing by the rules.
“I went to go get some essentials this morning and Voortrekker Road is quiet. Of the people walking, the majority had masks on. Outside Pick n Pay at Goodwood Mall, the queue was social-distance friendly. This all made my day.”