By Teboho Moloi
INTABAZWE – Frustrated residents of Intabazwe, Harrismith in the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality, are raising alarm over the unexplained closure of a local satellite police station. They say the shutdown has led to a surge in crime and left the community vulnerable to criminal activity.
The station, located on Ntshingila Street in 42nd Hill, is currently non-operational and vandalized. Only a signboard remains on the wall, while police dockets, stationery, and officers’ pocketbooks lie discarded—grim evidence of what was once a functioning community service centre.
Thandi Dlamini (24), a local youth, said the closure has made life more difficult, especially when accessing basic policing services. Residents now rely on the main police station in Harrismith, which is approximately 17 kilometres away.
“This station was very helpful. Now, just to certify documents for job applications, we spend around R30 on transport—or have to hitchhike,” said Dlamini.
She added that criminals operate freely, knowing that the police response time is significantly delayed.
Mandla Tshabalala (67), an elderly resident, told The Guard that community members no longer feel safe in their homes.
“We live in fear. If something happens, the police only arrive long after the crime has taken place and the criminals have disappeared,” he said.
What troubles residents even more, Tshabalala said, is that the station appeared to be fully functional before it was abruptly closed.
“It was shut down for no clear reason. I live nearby and see criminals coming and going, vandalizing what’s left of the place,” he added.
Tshabalala also lamented that many elderly residents now have to use part of their SASSA grant money to travel into town for police services.
Intabazwe consists of nearly ten extensions, including White City, Mabusmaneng, Matoding, and Kgothatso. Community members say they feel abandoned—and are calling for immediate action to restore police services in the area.
