By: Talent Buthelezi

Fearless KwaDabeka community members have made a firm stand against “whoonga”.

This is after HIV patients in the area voiced out how they have been targets to consumers of the drug.

“At first we were mugged of our belongings (money, cell phones and jewellery) but now things have taken a horrific turn as we are being robbed of our health,” said Ndabenhle Mkhwanasi.

Mkhwanasi added that they also had to face the “whoonga boys” on top of dealing with the infection.

“These rebels steal our medication and when we go to the clinic to get more (since the medication we originally received has been taken) nurses do not give it to us as we had already been given medication for the month and in some cases months ahead. Nurses tell us to report the matter in the police station,” said Mkhwanazi.

Community members have formed a forum that works hand in hand with the police in the area to minimize and eventually get rid of “whoonga”. They have made it their duty to capture and call the police if they come across an addict resorting to crime or violence within the area. Some community members are however sceptical if the police are doing enough to combat the situation.

Nomzamo Simamane, a resident of KwaDabeka said, “I seriously don’t think the police are doing enough. The law and justice system in South Africa is a big fat joke, what rights should people who rape, kill and steal have?”

HIV patients are under threat from the infamous “whoonga boys” because of the drugs they use for treating themselves. Pictures courtesy of google.

Pulse, a non-governmental organisation in the area which informs and educates the youth about the effects that illegal drugs have on the consumer’s body, has also come to the rescue. Pulse is also a health and mini rehabilitation centre which helps the youth lead a positive (clean) life.

Community members are ready to fight the current ‘whoonga’ situation as they demand justice to be done.