Plea to protect elderly residents
THE Kwazulu-natal Department of Social Development has expressed concern over the alarming attacks against senior citizens.
In recent weeks, there has been a spate of attacks on, and murders of, elderly Durban residents.
On Monday, a 71-year-old pensioner was stabbed and robbed of R100 while walking along a pathway in Shallcross.
CCTV footage of the attack captured from a nearby home camera went viral on social media.
Mhlabunzima Memela, spokesperson at the KZN Department of Social Development, said they were shocked and saddened by the Chatsworth murder.
“We are deeply concerned about the alarming prevalence of abuse against senior citizens within our communities. We must come together to safeguard the well-being of our elderly population.
“We urge our communities to refrain from allowing older persons to walk alone or be left unattended.
“We have consistently emphasised the importance of reaching out to the department if unable to care for an elderly individual, ensuring they are safely relocated to an old-age home where they will receive the necessary support and protection,” he said.
Memela said the protection of older persons was the responsibility of everyone.
Other recent attacks include the murder of a 77-year-old granny who was found dead in her Shastri Park, Phoenix, home. It is alleged that she was strangled by her gardener.
A 70-year-old man, who was a caretaker of a church in Trenance Manor, Phoenix, was recently found tied and strangled.
Vishal Lachman, chairperson of the Shallcross Community Police Forum (CPF) and PRO of the Chatsworth CPF, said communities should get more involved in eradicating criminal elements.
“They cannot just rely on the CPFS, police and security companies. They need to be the eyes on the ground, informing police and security companies of suspicious individuals or vehicles in the area.
“They need to be vigilant of what is happening outside their properties. It’s no longer about being responders, but preventers.
“It is very sad what had happened to the elderly man. There seems to be a trend now of senior citizens being attacked because they are seen as easy targets,” said Lachman.
Umesh Singh, former head of the ethekwini outer north cluster CPF, said the elderly should refrain from being too trusting of people who are unknown to them, and they should always exercise caution when alone.
“The elderly are trusting and allow people on to their property, some on the pretext of wanting water. They should not allow anyone because they could be criminals. There is also a lack of security at homes. Communities need to be mobilised.
“Crime has increased due to unemployment and drug addiction. Life means nothing to criminals who are focused on getting their fix for the day,” said Singh.