Thousands spent to safeguard Alberton’s first police station
The premises are reportedly, on a forever basis, secured by a security company that is being paid the amount of R 484 932.84 for six months.
The derelict building of the first police station in Alberton, which due to its age falls under the National Heritage Council, has caught the attention of concerned community members.
The building based in Van Riebeeck Avenue, Alberton North, is allegedly a white elephant that is guarded by security companies contracted by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. For years, the property has not been occupied to date.
According to the City of Ekurhuleni’s general valuation roll (July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2025), the property’s market value is standing at R350 000 and is categorised as a business and commercial property.
There is a group of security companies who are said to benefit to the extreme. It is said that the property is guarded by security companies whose contracts extend for at least six months’ periods at a time.
Thereafter, another security company will benefit by entering into a contract, providing at least two guards per day to safeguard the property.
The premises are reportedly, on a forever basis, secured by a security company that is paid the amount of R484 932.84 for the six months. This is to avoid vandalism at the already derelict building.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure confirmed with the Alberton Record that the property was previously utilised as a police station and that it has since been handed back to the department due to its derelict state.
“Since the property has been handed back it has been guarded or secured by our department to avoid further vandalism and illegal occupation. The department is in the process of letting out all unutilised properties through an open tender process,” explained the department’s spokesperson Thami Mchunu.
The property will be advertised in the open market and interested bidders will have to submit their offers for further consideration by the relevant appointed committees.
According to Mchunu, the property is earmarked for rental with a view to generating revenue in the short term.
“There are no plans to sell this property since the department is not selling properties at the current moment.
The department is committed to ensuring that all State Properties are well managed and secured to avoid illegal activities and vandalism,” he said.
