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In the suburbs of our city it is a reassuring thought that there is an ever-watchful eye endeavouring to keep our neighbourhoods safe.
Security cameras are an effective tool to prevent crime, but it is the dedication and human presence of the everyday heroes that patrol our streets that really make residents feel secure and valued.
For the community of Richmond Hill, seeing security patrol officers like Popo Kanyiso turning a corner is one of the joys of living in the suburb. Kanyiso has been in the security business for many years, and has become an expert in dealing with all kinds of people.
With his broad smile and friendly, approachable manner, Kanyiso is easy to talk to. Even when having to deal with difficult individuals in somewhat, as he calls them, “tricky situations”.
“One has to stay calm at all times, even when people try to provoke us and try to get a reaction from us. We know our boundaries and know never to overstep them,” he says.
Even though his job is not always easy, Kanyiso’s resolve is clear and his commitment steadfast as he reflects on his obligation towards the community he serves.
“Some days are more challenging than others. When I’ve had a tough day, my wife can always see it on my face when I get home. But one has to be there, in the line of duty.”
Yet he never feels alone. What inspires him the most is the continuous support, gratitude and acknowledgment that he receives from the residents, SAPS, and the Richmond Hill SRA. Evidently, the co-operation and open communication channels between residents and crime prevention authorities strengthen the bonds within a community. Through actively participating we empower each other and ultimately create a community bound by mutual respect.
At times, when the memories of the wide, open road, with its big sky call to him, Kanyiso likes to reminisce about his past. For 15 years he worked at a fish processing factory at the Gqeberha harbour. Sometimes he made deliveries over long distances, driving as far as Johannesburg. He loved the peace and quiet he experienced during those long trips.
Even so, he is always happy to be next to the ocean. Having lived in Durban before moving to Walmer and then, in recent years, to Kwadwesi, Kanyiso has never been too far from the coast.
“We had some really good times during those years. When it was the yearly tuna deep-sea fishing competition, we had a lot of work! That is something I will always remember.”
Kanyiso, however, emphasises his preference to be next to the water, his feet firmly planted on the ground, as he recalls a past event with a big smile.
“There was one day, when we had to go into the ocean to fix a broken gearbox on a boat; that I will never forget. The seasickness was terrible!”
Like most people, Kanyiso also had to weather the storms of life, but his reliable spirit and unwavering sense of loyalty have sustained him. His love for a freshly-caught Cape salmon on the braai, and watching his favourite team, the Mamelodi Sundowns, are only a part of what make up his colourful character. He dreams of one day opening a tyre business.
For now, Kanyiso guards our streets, vigilantly and ever observant.
His closing statement leaves me with much food for thought.
“The people who live here will never find a place like Richmond Hill again. When they leave, then they will have reason to complain,” he said.
Throughout the day, and into the early hours of the morning, men like Kanyiso glide past the homes of sleeping residents. Defenders of the peace – our watchmen at the proverbial gates. They are silently, but unmistakably there; without a shadow of a doubt.
