Refugees living in temporary structures along the pavement of Robert Sobukwe Road for almost a year have at long last been relocated.
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The total number of relocated refugees amounts to over one hundred and this group mainly consists of women and children.
The group was initially removed from their refugee camp in October of last year. The removal came about after the group refused to abide by the rigid rules established by the ‘leaders’ of the camp.
The new location of the group is now a fenced settlement next to the Paint City store in Bellville.
According to IOL, a representative of the group has deemed the relocation ‘a good thing, especially for the kids’ and confirmed that the group has been in discussion with the City for a few months prior to the relocation.
A spokesperson for the replaced refugees believes that the new location is safer as the vulnerable group has been more sheltered from the dangers of being on the street.
The chairperson of the Bellville Community Policing Forum, who played a part in solving this issue, stated that although the removal of informal settlements fell outside their jurisdiction, they have a shared responsibility in ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of Bellville, irrespective of nationality.
Ultimately, the group’s representative has stated that although the City’s relief has been appreciated, it is not enough to solve the issue of them leaving the country for good.
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Picture: Bellville Police Station
