Gqeberha’s northern areas are facing a worrying surge in youth crime, with more than 1,800 children and young adults, some as young as 14, arrested over the past year for serious offences ranging from violence to drug-related crimes.
Police and community workers in gang-affected neighbourhoods including Helenvale, Gelvandale, and Schauderville warn that these arrests likely represent only the tip of the iceberg. Many incidents remain unsolved or unreported, painting a far more troubling picture of crime in the metro.
While the statistics are alarming, local political leaders have acknowledged the problem and pledged urgent intervention. Plans include doubling the number of metro police officers in the most affected areas and increasing resources for law enforcement and community outreach initiatives.
“The challenge is enormous, but we cannot ignore it,” said a city spokesperson. “We are committed to giving our communities the protection they deserve and tackling youth crime at its roots.”
Authorities stress that addressing the issue requires collaboration between law enforcement, schools, families, and community groups, with a focus on both prevention and rehabilitation.
Residents of the northern suburbs say more visible policing, youth programmes, and community engagement are urgently needed to curb gang activity and provide alternatives for young people caught up in criminal networks.
The city’s pledge comes amid growing concern over rising violence among youth, with experts warning that without proactive measures, the trend could continue to escalate, undermining safety and social cohesion in the metro.