IN CONVERSATION WITH SIHLE NGUSE [WARD 60 COUNCILLOR]

A recent armed robbery in Braamfontein has once again placed student safety under the spotlight after students, workers, and residents were robbed by armed perpetrators at a local business near one of Johannesburg’s major universities. According to a statement issued by Ward 60 Councillor S. Nguse, the incident left many victims traumatised after cellphones, laptops, and other valuables were stolen at gunpoint. The robbery occurred during a particularly stressful period for students preparing for June examinations and assignment deadlines. Beyond the immediate financial losses, the incident has reignited concerns about the growing sense of insecurity around Johannesburg’s student districts, where robberies, muggings, and theft have become recurring complaints from students and residents alike. For many students, a stolen cellphone is not merely an inconvenience. It often means losing access to banking services, academic materials, study groups, university communication platforms, transport apps, and contact with family members. In some cases, students also lose coursework, research data, and assignment submissions stored on devices The incident also raises broader questions about safety in commercial areas surrounding universities. Allegations that no security personnel were present at the time of the robbery have sparked discussions about the responsibilities of businesses, landlords, educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, and local government in creating safer public spaces. The councillor’s office has since called for stronger collaboration between SAPS, businesses, universities, community stakeholders, and municipal authorities to address violent crime affecting students and working-class communities. The robbery comes amid growing frustration among students who increasingly report feeling unsafe while commuting, studying off-campus, visiting shops, or moving around Braamfontein and surrounding areas. Many argue that crime has become so normalised that students are forced to adapt their behaviour rather than expect meaningful interventions from authorities. The incident also highlights the psychological impact of violent crime. Victims often carry trauma long after the physical incident ends, affecting concentration, academic performance, mental health, and overall wellbeing. As Johannesburg positions itself as a centre for higher education and economic opportunity, questions are mounting about whether enough is being done to ensure students can study, work, and live without fear. Instagram · Twitter