On October 18, 2015, a black cloud descended on Rhodes Park after two men were drowned in the lake.
The community was left in shock and fear for their safety in the park. It’s been 14 months since the incident and the community has claimed their park back. Now, the current problems in the park are the usual social ills, and they seem to be increasing daily.
A resident from Kensington and a regular visitor to the park said she is concerned about the activities in Rhodes Park. “I am deeply concerned about the park.Vagrancy has returned, despite the gates being locked; and over the last couple of weeks, I have found dagga bags and condom wrappers scattered throughout the park. Also, there is illegal fishing taking place on weekends,” said Alison Roberts.
She said Ward 66 councillor, Carlos Da Rocha has been working hard to restore the park to its former glory and activities like this are not helping. Da Rocha is also concerned about the activities and said the community should come together and fight for the park.
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“When the double murder happened in the park I never thought anyone would want to use the park again. But the community came together and claimed it back. Pick n Pay and Stallion came on board and offered to help with security. It’s not enough for such a big park but it’s the little that they can do. The community needs to come on board and assist because more security is still needed in the park,” he said and added that he is also concerned about the social ills in the park because it’s a family environment and drugs are not welcome.
“Such behaviour is not acceptable and the illegal fishing poses a risk to the geese and other birdlife. I would like to warm those who are fishing in the park that what they are doing is wrong and they should stop,” urged Da Rocha.
He also warned the community to be careful when parking their cars in the park’s parking lot as recently there were cars which had their windscreens smashed.
“If you could walk to the park, please do and if you arrive with your vehicle, make sure you put your belongings away safely in the boot,” concluded Da Rocha.
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