The Democratic Alliance in Upington is launching a petition calling for urgent police action to address ongoing noise, public nuisance and safety concerns linked to two taverns in Ward 4, Progress.
Residents have repeatedly raised concerns with the Dawid Kruiper Municipality and the South African Police Service (SAPS) about excessive noise and disturbances at taverns in Varkoor Crescent and Kanna Street. There are also complaints about alleged criminal activity associated with the premises, particularly during evenings and weekends.
The ongoing disturbances are affecting the peace and safety of surrounding households with reports of loud music and shouting, patrons urinating in the streets, disorderly behaviour, damage to vehicles and property, and possible illegal drug-related activity. There have also been serious reports of violent incidents and gunfire in the area. This includes the death of two young people at one of the tavern’s last month.
These concerns have been reported to SAPS. A complaint I submitted to the police in November 2025 called for the concerns to be investigated and for the taverns to be assessed for compliance with relevant laws and licensing conditions. Eight months later, residents are still waiting for action.
How many more deaths and disturbances will it take?
The DA is now escalating the matter by launching a petition calling on SAPS to act.
Residents should not have to live in fear or endure ongoing disruption while waiting for authorities to intervene.
The petition calls on the SAPS to investigate the complaints, work with relevant authorities to assess compliance with licensing and other legal requirements, increase visible policing in the area and take appropriate action to protect residents.
The DA has also previously submitted a complaint to the Northern Cape Liquor Board and will continue putting pressure on the authorities responsible for liquor licensing and municipal compliance to ensure that residents’ concerns are properly addressed.
This is about residents’ basic right to live in a safe and peaceful neighbourhood. The DA will continue standing with the community and pushing for action until these concerns are properly investigated and addressed.
We encourage residents of Ward 4 to support the petition and make their voices heard.