GOOD Statement by Keagen Gertse,
GOOD Drakenstein Councillor & Caucus Whip
26 April 2024
The GOOD party in Drakenstein welcomes an investigation into the possible abuse of power after a private security company intimidated and threatened a family at their residence, allegedly under instruction from the Municipality.
GOOD resolved to support and protect the basic human rights of this family after unmarked, private security personnel, whose names are known to GOOD, trespassed on their premises, intimidated the family, and went as far as pointing a firearm [shotgun] in the direction of an adult male.
The security company involved is familiar with and contracted by the Municipality.
This is also the same family against whom Drakenstein successfully obtained an eviction, but then suspended the notice for six months under a newly negotiated deal with the family.
GOOD brought the matter to council on an urgent basis for the DA-led municipality to sanction an investigation, and to suspend any employee found to have been involved in this crime, pending the outcome of the council investigation.
The matter was subsequently argued and some questioned it’s urgency. This resulting in the matter not being voted on; however, Speaker Ald. Koos le Roux used his discretionary powers to activate an official council sanctioned investigation.
Private security forces do not have policing powers to investigate a complaint, access a property without permission or a warrant, or point a firearm as a controlling mechanism to stop a crime from being committed.
If these individuals were indeed acting under instruction from Drakenstein, the Municipality acted ultra vires and beyond its scope. This means we are effectively dealing with a rogue institution amassing private security forces that are willing to break the law.
GOOD supported the family in making a case and bringing criminal charges against the security personnel for trespassing, intimidation, illegally pointing of a firearm and crimen injuaria.
Should Drakenstein’s involvement be proven throughout this investigation, GOOD will formally request that further action be taken against any municipal employees involved.
GOOD will not leave any stone unturned in our quest for justice and in exercising our rights to protect vulnerable communities.
Media Enquiries:
Keagen Gertse, GOOD Drakenstein Councillor & Caucus Whip
Cell: 081 063 7749
Email: keagengertse@gmail.com
Janke Tolmay, GOOD Media Manager
Cell: 073 367 1223
Email: janke@forgood.org.za