Authorities are addressing windscreen washer problem

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has increased its visibility in the hopes of deterring windscreen washers from operating at a Bruma intersection.

Sergeant Marius Boolsen, from the JMPD, told the community at a recent public meeting that the JMPD continues to keep an eye on the Allum Road, Marcia Street and Albertina Sisulu Road intersection.

Several motorists, councillors and interested parties raised concerns about the number of windscreen washers operating at this intersection. Motorists either find alternative routes or approach the intersection hoping they will not be threatened or intimidated.

Colonel Bongani Dlamini, the Cleveland SAPS station commander, previously stated that several of the people operate as windscreen washers during the day and turn to crime at night.

He therefore increased the Cleveland SAPS’ visibility and urged the JMPD to do conduct more patrols.

At the Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) meeting held recently, Sgt Boolsen said the JMPD and Cleveland SAPS is working together to address the ongoing problem.

“I thank the Cleveland SAPS for their help. We cannot do it alone. We are constantly working with the Cleveland SAPS to address the problems. I committed to increasing visibility at the intersection and we did. We deploy members there. I have also informed officers who work during other shifts about the problems so they can strengthen their action against the windscreen washers,” said Sgt Boolsen. Despite the action taken by the JMPD, windscreen washers continue to return during times when officers are attending to other responsibilities. Sgt Boolsen said they are trying to address these concerns.

He urged motorists to stop giving windscreen washers money because this gives them a reason to operate there.

@JoziReporter