Several Malawian nationals were allegedly left stranded at Eerste River railway station after paying a substantial sum of money to a bus driver who had agreed to transport them back to Malawi. According to reports received by VOC News, the driver disappeared without completing the journey, leaving the group stranded for 21 days with no means of returning home.
The humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers was subsequently approached to provide the affected individuals with relief and support while efforts were made to resolve their situation.
To discuss the circumstances surrounding the incident, the assistance being provided, and the steps being taken to help the stranded Malawian nationals return home, Gift of the Givers spokesperson Ali Sablay spoke to VOC News.
Meanwhile, the local sheikh in the Eerste River community, Sheikh Yaseen Katona of Driftsands Muhammad Masjid, has shared his experience of assisting the stranded foreign nationals after residents appealed to him for help.
Sheikh Katona said community members alerted him to the situation, prompting him to provide humanitarian assistance and help coordinate relief efforts. His intervention, together with the support of Gift of the Givers, helped ensure that the stranded individuals received food, shelter and other essential aid while efforts continued to resolve their situation.
The incident has highlighted the important role played by local community leaders and humanitarian organisations in supporting vulnerable people during times of crisis.
The matter is currently under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) following allegations that the bus driver absconded with the foreign nationals’ money.
Photo: Supplied
