The Van der Merwes missed the open spaces when they first moved to a walled neighborhood in Lonehill for security reasons. The neighbors banded together to hire private guards, like Patrick Sikhakhane, after several carjackings. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Noelene Cilliers, left, prays with her parents Celeste and Willie Van der Merwe before eating lunch. They live together in Lonehill, a suburb of Sandton, South Africa. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Willie Van der Merwe works in his home office. There is an inside security gate in the hallway at left, used at night and nicknamed the “rape gate.” (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Willie van der Merwe, an accountant for a clothing company, conducts business at home. His firm has regained government contracts. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
