UPDATE: Problematic crime hotspot receives attention

The trench has been dug-up to block cars from going through the open land.

October 20, 2023

Raymond Mokwena 1 minute read

The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) will use the 2024/25 financial year budget to mitigate the issues surrounding the veld opposite the East Rand Mall taxi rank, between First and Edgar Roads, which has apparently become a den for thieves.

The Boksburg Advertiser reported on August 15 about muggings in the area. Some of those targeted included three Caxton employees walking to work from the East Rand Mall taxi rank through the veld just after 06:00 on August 10. An armed robber confronted them.

Vagrants were also sleeping in concrete pipes left in the veld.

Parts of the precast wall that were removed on the open land.

Boksburg Advertiser saw CoE employees partially demolishing the already vandalised precast wall and digging a trench in the veld on September 8.

However, CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the city has not issued an authorisation for the demolition of the wall.

“The city plans to install barriers or guardrails to prevent cars from passing through the veld.

The part of the precast wall that was removed gives way to motorbikes and people to enter and get out of Jansen Park.

“Unfortunately, due to budget constraints, this installation is only budgeted for the financial year of 2024/25.
”The city supports the protection of its properties, so the EMPD will be requested to monitor the open land,” he said.

“It appears the wall was vandalised and someone stole parts of it.

“We decided to remove the concrete stormwater pipes to the Roads and Storm Water Department depot in Boksburg to be stockpiled and be utilised in the future,” explained Dlamini.

Also Read: Veld in Jansen Park hotspot for muggings

Also Read: Metro demolishes a part of the wall used by criminals to hide in Jensen Park