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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape is deeply disturbed by the increasing number of attacks on social workers in the province. Since 1 April 2024 to date, a total of 54 incidents involving attacks on social workers have been reported.

These cases that are currently under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS), was revealed in response to a DA question during a sitting this week of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament.

The reported incidents include vehicle hijackings, attempted hijackings, and other forms of intimidation while on duty. Any act of violence against them is an attack on the very fabric of the social support system.

The breakdown of the incidents by area is as follows:
• Khayelitsha: 9
• Harare: 8
• Mfuleni: 8
• Gugulethu: 5
• Lingelethu and Lingelethu West: 4
• Mitchells Plain: 3
• Nyanga: 3
• Philippi: 3
• Blue Downs: 2
• Kleinvlei: 2
• Bellville: 1
• Delft: 1
• Gordon’s Bay: 1
• Kuyasa: 1
• Langa: 1
• Makhaza: 1
• Kuilsriver: 1

These attacks are unacceptable and severely undermine efforts to provide essential social services to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, people living with disabilities, and those affected by substance abuse and gender-based violence.

Wendy Kaizer-Philander, MPP, DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Social Development, said: “The DA in Western Cape condemns these acts in the strongest possible terms, and we call on law enforcement agencies to prioritise these investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.”

“Despite these threats, our social workers have shown immense bravery, professionalism, and dedication by continuing to serve high-risk communities. We extend our deepest gratitude to these frontline workers who put their lives at risk daily to ensure that critical support services reach those in need.”

The Western Cape Department of Social Development is actively working with SAPS and community safety partners to strengthen security measures and improve the safety of personnel in the field. I will once again be writing a letter to follow up on my numerous previous correspondence addressed to the Office of the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, requesting that these attacks be classified as crimes against the state.

We urge community members to stand in solidarity with social workers, protect them, and report any threats or suspicious behaviour that may place their lives at risk. Let us work together to ensure that no social worker must choose between their personal safety and their professional duty.

Issued by Wendy Kaizer-Philander MPP - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Social Development