On Wednesday morning, Elim residents blocked off all entrances to the Elim Mall after the mall's management had allegedly failed to address their demands.
Angry residents prevented people from accessing the shopping mall, causing several commuters from around the Elim area to be stranded. Shops in the area were closed for most of the morning. The protesters were blocking off roads, using stones, and they actively prevented motorists from getting past. The police had to use water guns to try and disperse the angry residents and to open the entrances to allow workers and taxi operators access to the mall.
Residents said they had been engaging with the Elim Mall's management regarding the sewage spilling from the mall into the residential area. They are also concerned about the high rate of crime and feel that the dark areas around the mall should be lit up at night.
"For many years now we have been complaining," said a community leader, Mr Michael Rasiluma. "When we complain, we are told they will come and meet with us, but they do not. They must come and fix the spilling sewage. Residents demand that they install lights to reduce the crime. They also demand the creation of jobs," he said.
Rasiluma said that the sewage caused such a nasty smell that residents living nearby could hardly eat any food in their own houses. The residents complain about the green flies that are in abundance. "It kills one's appetite," said Rasiluma.
At the time of our going to press, the spokesperson for the mall, Mr Christo Heyneke, had not yet responded to questions that were sent to him.