SAMWU demands action on attacks targeting Western Cape waste staff

The South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) in the Western Cape is calling on government and community leaders to condemn and address ongoing attacks on waste management staff.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, over 50 cases of hijackings and robberies were reported, affecting workers in cleansing, collections, disposal, and public awareness teams.

The union said the increase in attacks has also taken a toll on workers' mental health, with many showing signs of post-traumatic stress.

SAMWU’s Western Cape regional secretary, Hlalanathi Gagayi, said having law enforcement escort waste management trucks is not a sustainable solution.

“We call on community leaders, we call on politicians, we call on government, and we call on everyone to see this big problem as we see it. Because if it continues, then we may end up having a situation where it's as if our members are not giving services only because of the issue of crime,” Gagayi said.