Walmer protests cost businesses millions

LOOTING, damage to property and forced closures due to safety concerns during the violent service delivery protests in Walmer two weeks ago saw businesses in the area losing nearly R2.5-million.

A survey conducted by the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber – to which 30 of its member businesses responded – revealed losses amounting to R2 421 600.

The bulk of the damages were turnover losses totalling R1 391 500, while stock losses totalled R527 600 in stock.

With most of the businesses not insured for public violence, they will have to foot the bill for the collective R502 500 loss in damage to property and all other losses.

Walmer township residents disgruntled with the lack of service delivery in the area went on a two-day rampage two weeks ago, burning tyres, looting shops and blocking roads.

Businesses were forced to close, staff were intimidated and customers’ vehicles stoned and damaged.

-Zandile Mbabela