Residents want ‘criminal heaven’ cleaned up
Councillor Halalisani Ndlovu has committed to get something done about an overgrown property in Grundel Road, Glenmore.
AN overgrown property in Grundel Road, Glenmore has become a haven for criminals say local residents who have noticed an increase in the number of incidents of house robberies, break-ins and theft out of motor vehicles in recent months.
According to resident, Thandeka Mbele, the vacant piece of land has been left unattended for more than six years.
“This land has now become a hiding place for criminals. We have found many stolen items left on the property for thieves to collect at a later time. The woman living on the property next door has small children, and I'm concerned for their safety,” she said.
She said the recent criminal activities had become a major concern for neighbouring residents.
“We now live in fear since the festive season is approaching and do not know what will happen next. Numerous attempts have been made to inform the ward councillor as well as the office of municipality, but all our attempts have failed since this matter has not been attended to. We don't want empty promises, we want action,” she said.
Resident Laureen van Rooyen said she had been fighting with the municipality and writing letters about this issue since 2004 when she moved into the road.
“I've reported this so many times but the municipality is not interested. Another issue is the servitude which runs up from Grundel Road which is overgrown. People can't use the stairway as it is blocked by vegetation, and is also a hiding space and escape route for thieves. We have tried to get it closed, but had no joy. It's criminal heaven! As an estate agent, I have been able to track down the owner, but nothing has been done to maintain this land,” she said.
DA PR councillor, Halalisani Ndlovu who met with residents on Monday said he felt the residents had raised relevant complaints.
“As we are all aware that crime levels increase during the festive season, I will be writing to the head of real estate to ascertain as to who the property belongs to, as this is now a safety hazard for the community and requires immediate attention,” he said.
Councillor Ndlovu said he would request that the municipality clears the property and charges the owner through increased rates.
“Once I have received feedback from real estate I will request that a letter is sent to the owner from the municipality informing him of this request. I will report back within 14 working days on the progress of this complaint,” he said.
