GOOD Statement by Marius van Stade
GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor
31 July 2026
GOOD Stellenbosch is deeply concerned by the alarming increase in burglaries, robberies and violent crime affecting residents of Hillside Village and the greater Idas Valley community.
Families are living in fear, elderly residents feel increasingly vulnerable, and workers travelling before sunrise are being targeted by criminals. No community should be forced to live under these conditions.
Residents have repeatedly raised these concerns with Stellenbosch Municipality and the South African Police Service (SAPS), yet many believe that the response has been inadequate. The Hillside Village Neighbourhood Watch has also identified municipal stormwater infrastructure, bridge culverts and open spaces that are allegedly being used by criminals to conceal stolen goods and evade detection.
GOOD Stellenbosch calls for an urgent, coordinated response involving Stellenbosch Municipality, SAPS, Municipal Law Enforcement, Community Safety officials and the Hillside Village Neighbourhood Watch. Immediate action must include increased visible patrols, inspections of identified municipal infrastructure, improved maintenance, strategic fencing of vulnerable public spaces and stronger interventions to address substance abuse in the community.
Community safety is a shared responsibility. While SAPS leads crime prevention, local government has a critical role in maintaining safe public spaces, strengthening law enforcement and supporting community partnerships.
The residents of Hillside Village deserve to live without fear. GOOD Stellenbosch will continue to advocate for decisive action, accountable governance and practical solutions that restore safety, dignity and public confidence.
Media enquiries: media@forgood.org.za